Spain's largest wildfire of 2026 scorches 12,000 hectares, forces evacuations

Spain's largest wildfire of the year has scorched approximately 12,000 hectares (29,600 acres) in the northeastern province of Zaragoza, prompting the evacuation of more than 1,100 people, according to RTVE. The fire, which began Wednesday in the Cinco Villas region, remained "quite active" through Friday, with significant spread overnight, authorities said.

Evacuations and Firefighting Efforts

The blaze has forced the evacuation of five municipalities in Zaragoza and one in neighbouring Navarre, with a perimeter of about 60 kilometres (37 miles) and several road closures. Around 400 ground personnel and 19 aircraft were deployed on Thursday, with firefighters working through the night to protect homes in Uncastillo. Electricity has been restored to all affected towns.

Multiple Wildfires Across Spain

Elsewhere, a fire near La Mierla in Guadalajara burned 900 hectares, prompting evacuations and the deployment of the Military Emergency Unit. A third fire near Lozoyuela, north of Madrid, was progressing favourably but remained uncontained after burning nearly 70 hectares. Authorities arrested a man suspected of starting the Madrid-region fire. The blazes have been fuelled by high temperatures, strong winds and abundant vegetation following a rainy spring.