Wildfire Explodes Across 460 Hectares In Spain As Crews Battle Steep Terrain

A major wildfire that started Thursday afternoon in the parish of Randín spread across about 460 hectares by Friday midday, becoming the largest wildfire of the year so far in Ourense.

The fire began around 1:36 p.m. local time, with flames approaching the village of As Meaus in neighboring Baltar. Authorities declared a precautionary emergency situation, although no evacuation was reported that afternoon.

Firefighters faced steep, difficult-to-reach terrain as they worked to contain the blaze. BRIF units from Laza and Tabuyo joined regional crews in ground attacks, while helicopters and aircraft carried out aerial water drops.

Footage from Thursday shows the burning hillside, thick smoke columns, aerial firefighting operations and crews working directly on the slopes.

The area burned increased from about 140 hectares Thursday afternoon to 250 hectares by evening and 350 hectares overnight. By Friday midday, the fire had reached about 460 hectares.

The precautionary emergency situation was lifted Friday as the fire remained active. Dozens of brigades, fire engines, helicopters and aircraft were eventually involved in the response.