MADRID: A wildfire in the western Spanish region of Extremadura has destroyed up to 3,700 acres and displaced 550 people, with windy conditions hindering efforts to contain it, emergency services said on Friday.
“There are very strong gusts of wind generating a speed and progress that makes efforts to extinguish it difficult,” said David Barona, commander of the Military Emergency Unit, on state television channel 24H.
“The smoke plume is spreading at low altitude, making it difficult for air assets to access the area.”
Up to 250 firemen are battling the incident in Pinofranqueado, Caceres province, close the Portuguese border.
Authorities have ordered the evacuation of up to 550 residents from Cadalso, Descargamara, and Robledillo de Gata.
Authorities suspect the fire was lit on purpose.