Firefighters have stabilized the Segorbe wildfire after it destroyed 630 hectares. Over 1,000 residents of Gátova remain evacuated. Emergency services worked through the night to contain the blaze.
The wildfire that erupted last Thursday in Segorbe, Castellón, has now been declared stabilized by the Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de Castellón. The fire, which started after a lightning strike, forced the evacuation of more than 1,000 residents from the nearby town of Gátova and devastated 630 hectares of forest in the Sierra Calderona. The announcement of stabilization came at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, following intense overnight efforts by emergency crews.
Throughout the night, six units and six fire engines from the Servicio de Bomberos Forestales de la Generalitat Valenciana, along with four specialized wildfire units from the Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de Castellón and four forest brigades from the Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos de Valencia, worked to bring the situation under control. Their coordinated response was crucial in preventing further spread and damage.
With the fire now stabilized, the Centro de Coordinación de Emergencias has deactivated the SPEIS protocol, which coordinates fire prevention and rescue services. The Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME), which had been mobilized to support firefighting efforts, has also been stood down. Despite the progress, the evacuation order for Gátova remains in place as authorities continue to monitor the area for potential flare-ups and ensure safety before allowing residents to return.
This incident highlights the ongoing wildfire risk in Spain’s Mediterranean regions, especially during periods of dry weather and storms. The rapid mobilization of resources and inter-agency cooperation were key factors in containing the fire. Similar challenges have been faced in other parts of Spain, as seen when firefighters in Castilla y León struggled with staff shortages and equipment issues during record wildfire seasons.
Wildfires remain a significant threat to rural communities and natural reserves across Spain. The Sierra Calderona, a protected natural park, is known for its biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making the impact of such fires particularly severe. Authorities continue to urge caution and preparedness, especially as climate patterns increase the likelihood of extreme weather events. The response in Segorbe demonstrates both the vulnerability of these regions and the capacity of emergency services to act swiftly under pressure.
