In August 2025, Spain is experiencing one of the most severe waves of wildfires in recent years. According to European satellite systems, nearly 400,000 hectares have been destroyed by fire since the beginning of the year, with about 350,000 burned just in August. The most critical situation remains in Galicia, Castilla y León, Extremadura, and Asturias, where about twenty major fires are still active.
In Galicia, the most affected area is the Ourense region. Since August 13, a fire in the Larouco area has destroyed between 20,000 and 45,000 hectares, according to various estimates, making it the most devastating in the autonomy’s history. The fire spread to neighboring municipalities and even crossed into the province of Lugo, threatening natural areas and towns.
In the municipality of Chandrexa de Queixa, a fire broke out on August 8 and quickly spread to adjacent areas, affecting over 18,000 hectares. The situation remains difficult in Oímbra and Xinzo de Limia, where the fire has destroyed about 15,000 hectares, impacting several municipalities.
In A Mezquita, since August 12, a fire has covered 10,000 hectares, spreading to the neighboring province of Zamora and affecting the municipalities of A Gudiña and Viana do Bolo. Firefighting efforts involve not only local services but also military units and equipment from Portugal.
In Castilla y León, the most severe situation has been reported in the province of León. In the Gestoso area, nearly 45,000 hectares have burned since August 16. In Llamas de Cabrera, more than 30,000 hectares have been destroyed by fire in 12 days, while in Barniedo de la Reina, over 24,000 hectares were scorched in a week, posing a threat to natural parks and the neighboring province of Palencia.
In the province of Zamora, a fire in the Porto area has affected about 20,000 hectares. Authorities continue to investigate the causes of the blaze, but note that the situation is gradually stabilizing.
In Extremadura, in the province of Cáceres, a fire in the Jarilla area has destroyed more than 15,000 hectares. The flames have spread to the territory of Salamanca, threatening the Jerte Valley and Tornavacas. Dozens of aircraft and hundreds of rescuers have been deployed to fight the fire.
Several active fires persist in Asturias. In the Genestoso area, a blaze that spread from León has not been contained, and aerial resources are being used to extinguish it. Helicopters are also operating in Caunedo-Gúa, and the main firefighting forces are concentrated in Degaña. In Arcenorio, near Picos de Europa, there is still an active focus that started after a lightning strike in León.
Spanish authorities report that most of the fires are highly dangerous and require constant monitoring. Efforts to combat the flames involve not only local services, but also the military, as well as equipment and specialists from other regions and countries. Despite these efforts, the disaster continues to threaten forests, farmland, and populated areas.
Experts attribute the scale of these fires to prolonged drought, high temperatures, and strong winds, which contribute to the rapid spread of flames. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions and monitor official updates on the situation.
The wildfires in Spain in 2025 have already been recognized as some of the most destructive in recent decades. Final data on the affected areas and damage will be available after all outbreaks have been fully extinguished.
