WATCH: Hundreds evacuated as wildfire tears through northeast Andalucía
The flames have consumed more than 700 hectares of land in Jaén and show no signs of slowing down
Agradezco enormemente la labor de todos los efectivos del @Plan_Infoca.
— Antonio Sanz Cabello (@antoniosanz) August 18, 2024
Mucha fuerza a todos los que luchen contra el fuego esta noche en #IFAndújar
Gracias por vuestra entrega, compromiso y profesionalidad.
¡Buen trabajo! pic.twitter.com/WzJHeoBZOg
A rapidly spreading wildfire in the Sierra de Andújar, Jaén, has forced the evacuation of between 400 and 500 people from their homes, with more than a hundred firefighters and emergency personnel battling the blaze.
The flames, which began on Sunday August 18, have already consumed more than 700 hectares of land and show no signs of slowing down.
The Junta de Andalucía has declared an emergency phase operational situation due to the fire's proximity to residential areas and the risk it poses to people and property. Meanwhile, the Andújar Council has urged residents to remain calm and avoid the affected area to ensure the safety of those working tirelessly to contain the fire.
Located in the areas of Las Viñas and La Caracola, the wildfire has led to the evacuation of approximately 200 homes in total and several roads have been closed, including the A-6177 and JV-5012. Additionally, the nearby Sierra de Andújar Natural Park is under threat, although officials have not issued evacuation instructions for the area known as La Alcaparrosa.
As of midday Monday August 19, more than a hundred members of the Forest Fire Operational Service (SEIF) were on the ground, including 13 groups of forest firefighters, operations and extinction technicians, supervision analysts and more. Helicopters and planes are attempting to douse the flames from the air.
The Health Emergency Centre (CES) 061 is also on standby to provide medical assistance if needed.
The situation remains critical, and the dedicated response teams are working tirelessly to contain the wildfire and ensure the safety of those in its path.
Images: 112 Andalucía
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