As winds whip up flames, smoke is visible throughout the Costa del Sol from Benahavis.

INFOCA crews have been fighting a forest fire that has spread rapidly in Benahavis in the Ermita del Rosario region. Smoke could be seen in Monteros, Marbella, from where it started.

Benahavis Road is engulfed in flames

Witnesses say the fire may be near El Paraiso Golf Club and is close to Benahavis Road. High winds feed the fire which is helping it to spread. Residents reported seeing a huge column of flames and smoke moving faster than they first thought.

Plan INFOCA first listed two helicopters — one medium and one light — plus 23 forest firefighters, two operations technicians, one environmental agent and a fire engine. Additional engines have been added since. Five fire trucks and 2 helicopters arrived from Cartama. More appliances are arriving, and other trucks have left Estepona.

Earlier, Estepona residents spotted a pyrocumulus (heat-producing) cloud.

What residents can do now

Avoid the Benahavis Road and fire ground if crews work there. When smoke drifts in your direction, shut windows and watch out for children, elderly people and those with breathing issues. If you notice a new outbreak, call 112 immediately.

This incident is separate from the larger Benahavis – Estepona fire in July that caused mass evacuations. Andalucia is still in its high-risk season until October 15, so September remains within the period. The recent Malaga fires at Cutar and Mijas have already shown how quickly even a small spark can require an aircraft.