Forest Fire Erupts Near Albacete, Spas Evacuated
Over 100 firefighters battle blaze ignited by vehicle accident
A significant forest fire broke out Monday afternoon in the municipality of Salobre, Albacete, casting a large smoke plume visible for miles. The incident necessitated the precautionary confinement of approximately 600 individuals at the Benito and La Esperanza spas due to smoke.
Swift Response from Infocam
In immediate action, the Castilla-La Mancha government deployed over 100 ground personnel and nearly a dozen aerial units through its Infocam Plan. Their mission was to contain the spread of the flames in the ecologically vital natural area.
As of 9:30 PM, the fire was reported to be nearing stabilization and was expected to be under control within hours. Initial assessments indicate that only a few hectares of forest were impacted, a testament to the rapid operational response.
Vehicle Accident Sparks Blaze
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire’s origin traces back to a van accident on the CM-412 road, between Reolid and Salobre. The vehicle caught fire following the collision, with flames subsequently spreading to the adjacent woodland.
The Civil Guard of Albacete temporarily halted traffic on this stretch of the road to aid extinction efforts and ensure public safety.
Spas Placed on Lockdown
The spas, Benito and La Esperanza, implemented their self-protection protocols. While confined, sources confirmed that the roughly 600 individuals present were never in danger, as the facilities are situated a considerable distance from the fire’s epicenter.
This event underscores the heightened risk of forest fires during summer months, particularly from accidental incidents that can rapidly escalate into environmental emergencies. According to the European Forest Fire Information System, over 1,200,000 hectares were lost to wildfires across Europe in 2022, highlighting the persistent threat wildfires pose (EFFIS 2022 Report).
