The Spanish authorities stated that due to an out-of-control wildfire in the Tarragona province of Catalonia, more than 18,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate as of Tuesday (July 8th), with dozens forced to leave their homes. The fire has already engulfed nearly 3,000 hectares (about 7,400 acres) of vegetation.
The wildfire broke out in a remote area near the village of Pauls early Monday morning, with difficult terrain and strong winds exacerbating firefighting efforts. Local government officials indicated that winds reached speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour (approximately 56 miles per hour), leading to the rapid spread of the fire. While the wind is expected to gradually weaken on Tuesday afternoon, authorities remain vigilant.
Over 300 firefighters are currently involved in the rescue operation, and Spanish emergency military units have also provided assistance at the scene since early Tuesday morning. Firefighters have been racing through mountain roads at night in an attempt to control the spread of the fire. Residents of nearby villages like Xerta and Aldover have spent sleepless nights, fearing the approaching flames.
76-year-old resident Rosa Veleda told Reuters, “Everyone is very scared; many people have cried. The fire reached our doorstep, and last night, due to the strong wind, the fire and smoke blew over, and we couldn’t leave the house at all. I have never seen such a frightening situation.”
Approximately 30% of the affected area is located within the Ports Natural Park, a natural reserve. Authorities have managed to prevent the fire from crossing the Ebro River, as the consequences could have been even more severe. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Spain experienced record high temperatures in June, leading to heightened wildfire alert levels in many parts of the country. In early July, two fatalities were reported in the same region due to wildfires.
(This article is based on relevant reports from Reuters)