Stunning drone footage has exposed the ferocity of wildfires raging near Madrid, as Spain grapples with a deadly heatwave sweeping across Europe. The blaze in Tres Cantos, 21 kilometers north of the capital, consumed scrubland at alarming speeds, leaving one person dead and another critically injured.
Authorities attribute the rapid spread to temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), with 2024 shaping up to be one of Europe's hottest years on record. Emergency crews worked through the night to contain the flames, while residents in surrounding towns received evacuation alerts. Climate scientists warn such extreme weather events may become more frequent, citing rising global temperatures and prolonged drought conditions.
Madrid's regional environment department reported over 300 hectares burned within hours. The incident highlights growing challenges for Mediterranean countries balancing tourism economies with climate resilience strategies.
