A British couple was rescued from a ravine in Spain’s Almería province with severe burns after being caught in deadly wildfires that have killed at least 12 people, including four believed to be Britons. The pair, found semi-conscious near the village of Bedar, were evacuated to intensive care with burns covering 40% of their bodies.
Wildfire rescue in Bedar
Civil Guard officers discovered the couple in the early hours of Friday after hearing distant cries for help. Sergeant Pedro Barre described the moment as a "titanic effort" by the victims to call out despite their injuries. The fire, which spread rapidly through 6,600 hectares (16,300 acres), has since been contained, according to Andalusia’s regional government.
Deadliest wildfires in Spanish history
The blaze is among Spain’s deadliest, with 12 confirmed fatalities. Forensic teams in Madrid are using DNA samples to identify the victims, a process slowed by relatives traveling from abroad. The fire forced the evacuation of nearly 1,500 people, with 600 allowed to return as conditions improved.
Evacuation and criticism of response
Residents near Bedar, including British expats, awaited access to their homes after days of uncertainty. Some, like Emma Mitchell, questioned the lack of mobile alerts and official guidance, while others praised local firefighters’ efforts. Authorities had previously cited technical challenges for not issuing broader warnings.
Wildfires have ravaged Southern Europe this summer, fueled by a sustained heatwave. Spain’s Copernicus climate service notes Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, increasing the risk of extreme fires.
