What to Do if you see a wildfire when driving

The summer in Spain is marked by an increase in wildfires. Most of these are the result of human negligence. When fires break out near roads, the danger level rises sharply — making it vital to know how to react if you come across one while driving.

In recent years, coastal regions such as the Costa Blanca and parts of Andalucía have been hit by fast-moving wildfires during the peak summer season, forcing road closures and evacuations in tourist areas. The combination of dry vegetation, high temperatures and strong winds creates the ideal conditions for fires to spread quickly, often taking drivers by surprise.

Wildfires are easily spotted at a distance by the visible smoke or flames. Turn around if your route takes you toward the fire.

Remember:

Avoid areas with high mountains where fires can spread quickly.

Avoid driving in the direction of wind. Flames will likely spread if you do.

Switch on your headlights and hazard lights — use fog lights if needed — so other road users can see you.

To alert emergency services, dial 112.

What to do in case of a forest fire

If you come across a fire on the road this summer:

Stay calm and assess the situation — do not act on impulse.

Never drive in dense smoke or flames.

You should not leave your car to run on foot, unless you are instructed to do so by the emergency services.

Close windows and turn off ventilation to prevent smoke from entering.

If you are forced to abandon your vehicle, cover the mouth and nose of the driver with a cloth. Then turn the head in the opposite directions from the wind.

Wildfires: What causes them?

Over 80% of wildfires in Spain are started by humans, with around 30% due to carelessness — some of it behind the wheel. The greatest danger is from hurling lit cigarette butts or glass bottles from vehicles, which can have a “magnifying” effect.

Recent wildfires across Spain

Wildfires broke out in the Costa Blanca area near Las Ramblas. 50 people were evacuated from their homes, and local roads were closed as crews tried to put the fires out.

On July 19, flames also erupted in the Torrevieja Lagoon, threatening to creep dangerously close towards the Torreta III Residential Area before being contained by the evening.

In Andalucía, a major fire near Tarifa (Cadiz province) started on August 5 in the Torre de la Peña campsite area. The fire forced over 1,500 people to evacuate, closed the N-340 and halted more than 5,000 cars as firefighters and aerial units battled it.

A wildfire on the Costa del Sol near Casares, on the 21st of July, burned both sides the A-377, forcing its closure as Plan Infoca and helicopters battled the flames.