FIRES across Spain have resulted in 11 deaths and widespread chaos, with tourists forced to flee their villas and evacuated from hotels.
Here is everything you need to know if you have a holiday to Spain coming up.
What is happening in Spain?
Extreme temperatures have resulted in wildfires in parts of Spain, along with France, Portugal and Greece.
The hot weather – expected to go over 40C this week – has resulted in dry forests and conditions, making them more prone to wildfires.
Local authorities have deployed over 150 firefighters and 200 military personnel to tackle them.
It is Spain’s worst wildfire in more than two decades and the Andalusia region’s most devastating in history
Where are the fires in Spain?
The fires in Spain are predominantly along the south of the country.
The blaze broke out in Los Gallardos, Almeria, southern Spain, and have since spread to areas including Cadiz.
Aragon, Catalonia and Valencia are the other regions tipped to be worst-affected.
What is the current travel advice for Spain?
All of Spain still remains safe to travel to, according to the UK Foreign Office.
However, they do have updated the travel advice.
The website states: “Local authorities have reported a wildfire in Los Gallardos, Almería, in Andalucía.
“If you are in an area affected by the wildfire:
- for emergencies, call 112 advice on what to do when it comes to wildfires.
- follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services at all times
- avoid travelling into or through the affected area
- follow updates from the emergency services”
The UK government also has wider information on them in general, saying: “Wildfires happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months.
“Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas. For information on wildfire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).
“Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind.
“You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas. Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.
“For information on what to do in the event of a wildfire, visit Civil Protection.”
Are holidays to Spain affected?
Most holidays remain unaffected if you are heading to Spain in the next few weeks.
Passengers will be contacted by their tour operator or airline if this changes.