The Foreign Office has issued an urgent update for British travelers in Spain after reports emerged that four UK nationals may have died in a wildfire near Los Gallardos, Almería. Authorities discovered four bodies in a burnt-out vehicle with a tourist area, suggesting the occupants were British.
Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s health and emergencies minister, said those inside were thought to be “of British origin.” Downing Street confirmed the Government was seeking further information following what it described as “concerning” reports.
A No 10 spokeswoman said: “I’m aware of those reports and the Foreign Office are in touch with the relevant authorities in Spain.”
The fire has affected more than 3,000 hectares, according to local officials.
Firefighters continue to battle the blaze near Los Gallardos, a small town in the Andalusia region.
In a fresh update released on Friday, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said: “Local authorities have reported a wildfire in Los Gallardos, Almería, in Andalucía.” It then advised people in affected areas to take four specific steps.
First, follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services at all times. Second, avoid traveling into or through the affected area. Third, monitor updates from the emergency services. Finally, dial 112 in an emergency.
The FCDO also provided helpline numbers.
For those concerned about someone in the area, the number is +34 677 904 624, staffed by the Psychological Intervention Group for Emergencies and Disasters (GIPED). English-speaking staff are available. For consular assistance, the FCDO said to call +34 917 146 300.
From the UK, the number is +44 (0)20 7008 5000. Wildfires in southern Spain during summer months are not unusual, though this one has drawn particular attention because of the suspected British casualties.
The area around Los Gallardos is a mix of dry scrubland and small agricultural settlements, conditions that can fuel fast-moving fires when temperatures spike.
Spanish authorities are leading the investigation into the four deaths. The condition of the vehicle — burnt out and with a right-hand steering wheel — pointed investigators toward the possibility that the occupants were British tourists or residents.
The bodies were found inside the car. Downing Street said it was monitoring the situation.
The Government has not yet confirmed the identities of the deceased, nor has it said whether consular staff have made contact with next of kin. The FCDO’s travel advice for Spain already notes the risk of wildfires during hotter months, and the update this week reinforces the need for travelers to stay alert and follow local instructions.
The fire near Los Gallardos remains active, and officials have not said when they expect to fully contain it. British travelers may also face other challenges, such as airport queues when returning home.
