A British couple have been rescued after suffering severe burns while hiking during a major wildfire in Almeria, southern Spain.
Police found the pair semi-conscious in a ravine near the badly affected community of Bedar while searching for people trapped by the fire. The couple had become surrounded by flames and suffered burns covering around 40% of their bodies.
The wildfire has killed 12 people and destroyed more than 6,000 hectares of land across Almeria province since Thursday. The couple are among eight people who have been hospitalised with serious burns.
Civil Guard officers said they discovered the hikers after hearing what first sounded like an echo in the distance. Sergeant Pedro Barre said experience encouraged officers to investigate the sound further.
The rescue team reached the couple and carried out a two-hour operation to move them to safety before they were taken to hospital for intensive treatment.
Another officer involved in the rescue, Rafael Zea, said the couple’s ability to call for help despite their condition showed their determination to survive.
Firefighters continue efforts as evacuations remain in place
More than 500 firefighters and emergency workers are involved in efforts to contain the wildfire. At least 1,400 people have been forced to leave their homes as strong winds helped spread the flames.
On Saturday, firefighters made progress after wind conditions improved. However, regional emergency officials said the situation remained difficult.
Antonio Sanz, head of emergencies in Andalusia, said crews had previously focused on preventing the fire from reaching more populated coastal areas. He added that teams were beginning more direct efforts to control the flames.
Forensic teams in Madrid are working to identify those who died using DNA samples from victims and relatives of missing people. Authorities believe most of the victims were British and Belgian nationals, along with one Spanish citizen.
Authorities investigate safety breaches during evacuation
The Civil Guard confirmed that two people had been arrested on suspicion of serious disobedience after allegedly returning to their homes despite evacuation orders.
Officials warned residents that ignoring evacuation instructions can put both individuals and emergency workers at risk.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is expected to visit the affected area on Monday as authorities continue their response to one of the country’s deadliest recent wildfires.
