Sunday, August 23, 2026

World News

Wildfires, flash floods hit Spain as over 1,000 evacuated, 11 injured

More than 1,000 people have been evacuated and at least 11 injured as Spain battles simultaneous wildfires and torrential rains, with severe flooding disrupting communities and transport across several regions.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Sunday, August 23, 2026

Madrid: In the Valencia region, around 1,000 residents were evacuated from the town of Gátova after a forest fire that started near Segorbe spread across the area. The blaze has burned approximately 633 hectares, while around 350 emergency personnel and 25 aircraft have been deployed in firefighting operations. Authorities said efforts have focused on preventing the flames from spreading further towards populated areas.

Meanwhile, torrential rain battered parts of Catalonia, particularly Tarragona, triggering widespread flooding. Authorities reported 11 people injured, including one person in critical condition and another seriously injured.

Emergency teams carried out numerous rescue operations as people became trapped inside vehicles and buildings surrounded by floodwaters. Hundreds were also moved from campsites and recreational areas, including evacuations around Roda de Berà and neighbouring communities.

The heavy rainfall flooded roads, streets and homes and caused major disruption to rail services, with several commuter lines temporarily affected before services began to resume.

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