A devastating wildfire sweeping across southern Spain has claimed at least 12 lives, with more than 20 people still missing, as emergency crews continue searching through the charred landscape.
Authorities say many victims were found inside burned-out vehicles after becoming trapped while trying to escape the fast-moving flames. Others reportedly lost their lives on foot after abandoning their cars as the fire rapidly closed in.
Officials say powerful winds, extreme heat, and tinder-dry vegetation caused the wildfire to spread at an alarming pace, leaving little time for many residents to evacuate safely.
Emergency services have deployed hundreds of firefighters, military personnel, helicopters, and water-bombing aircraft in a massive effort to contain the blaze and locate those still unaccounted for.
Authorities also revealed that some residents ignored official advice to remain sheltered, choosing instead to flee as conditions deteriorated, with several escape routes quickly overwhelmed by the advancing fire.
Entire communities have been evacuated as flames continue threatening homes, farmland, and critical infrastructure across the region.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the wildfire while rescue teams race against time to search damaged areas.
As Spain battles one of its deadliest wildfire disasters in recent years, officials continue urging residents to follow emergency instructions and remain alert as dangerous weather conditions persist.
