Lorraine Williamson
A 35-year-old volunteer has died while helping to tackle a fierce wildfire that crossed from Zamora into León. He had joined the official firefighting effort after donating his own brush cutter for use in the operation.
The blaze began in Molezuelas de Carballeda, Zamora, before spreading into the Valdería region of León. On Tuesday evening, two separate fire fronts suddenly merged on the LE-125 road, trapping the volunteer and others. The incident happened shortly after 7.15 pm.
Injuries and mass evacuations
Alongside the fatality, a 36-year-old man suffered burns and was taken to León hospital. Another injured person was treated at La Bañeza health centre. Authorities have reported further injuries from other fires across Castilla y León. So far, as stated on X by the Junta de Castilla y León, seven people have also been injured and are in hospitals in León and Zamora, of which five are severely burned.
More than 5,400 people have been evacuated in the Molezuelas area alone. Efforts to contain the flames have been hampered by strong winds of up to 100km/h and very low humidity.
Leaders offer condolences
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez posted a message on X, stating:
“I deeply regret the passing of a volunteer while carrying out firefighting duties in León.
All my affection and my deepest condolences to their family, friends, and colleagues.
Much strength and a speedy recovery to the people injured in that same fire.”
The president of Castilla y León, Alfonso Fernández Mañueco, also conveyed his sympathies and urged the public to take extreme care, stressing the need to follow official guidance at all times.
Dangerous fire conditions
This tragedy is part of a wider wave of wildfires hitting several regions of Spain this summer. The combination of soaring temperatures, parched vegetation, and high winds has created perfect conditions for rapid fire spread.
Meteorologists note that many affected areas met the “rule of 30” — temperatures above 30°C, humidity below 30%, and winds over 30km/h. Dry thunderstorms have made the situation even more volatile.
Suspected arson in Tarifa
Just a day after a major wildfire burned more than 300 hectares near Tarifa, police detained a man in Caños de Meca, Barbate. He was carrying two petrol canisters close to a newly ignited blaze.
For now, the suspect is linked only to this latest fire. However, investigators are also examining possible connections to the Tarifa blaze, which is believed to have been started deliberately. The Guardia Civil’s SEPRONA unit is leading the inquiry.
A drop in temperatures and easing winds could give firefighters a crucial window to contain active fronts and prevent more evacuations.
The death of this volunteer is a stark reminder of the risks faced by those on the fire line. While the dedication of community volunteers is invaluable, ensuring their safety must remain a priority.