Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has declared the end of the national emergency in Madrid and Ávila provinces, following significant progress in controlling the wildfires that have affected the region. The fires, which had previously led to the evacuation of thousands and the destruction of thousands of hectares of land, are now under control, allowing authorities to shift from a national to a regional response.
The decision to downgrade the emergency status was made after evaluating the current situation and the effectiveness of the firefighting efforts. Sánchez emphasized the importance of continued vigilance, especially with the forecasted heatwave, and urged citizens to adhere to safety guidelines to prevent future incidents. He also highlighted the need for a national agreement to address climate change, acknowledging the role of environmental factors in the severity of the fires.
While the situation in Madrid and Ávila has improved, other regions in Spain continue to face challenges. In Castilla y León, ten fires remain active, with three at maximum danger levels, particularly in Fermoselle (Zamora) and Veguellina and Valdelaloba (León). The Fermoselle fire, which began in the Arribes del Duero, has already devastated 11,000 hectares in a single day, leading to the evacuation of 14 towns and the confinement of Fermoselle and Fariza. Over 50 ground and air units, supported by the Military Emergency Unit (UME), are combating the flames, with concerns that wind and high temperatures may worsen the situation.
The Spanish government continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with regional authorities and emergency services to ensure a swift and effective response to the ongoing fires. Citizens are advised to stay informed through official channels and to follow any evacuation orders or safety instructions issued by local authorities.