Massive Wildfires Devastate Rural Areas West of Madrid
Large wildfires are ravaging recreational areas with forests and lakes just an hour's drive west of Madrid, Spain. As of July 26, 2026, over 40,000 hectares have been burned, half of which is forest, turning the rural idyll into a black desert. Approximately 90,000 people have been evacuated. The fires have destroyed centuries-old chestnut groves, nature reserves, campsites, and homes. Strong winds are hampering firefighting efforts, and new villages are at risk as the wind shifts. Three main fires have nearly merged into one. One fire was sparked by a man using heavy agricultural machinery despite a strict ban; he was arrested and is reported to be a climate change denier and sympathizer of the far-right VOX party. Another major fire in central Spain was linked to a VOX mayor who disregarded a harvesting ban. The fires have spread rapidly, with one spot advancing three kilometers in just 40 minutes.
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