Grazalema near Ronda is hit by a forest fire that forces 188 residents to flee.

On Monday night, the number of evacuees from a forest blaze near Grazalema in Cadiz Province was raised to 188. The fire started shortly after 1pm in El Alamillo, a mountainous area near Ronda called Sierra de Grazalema. The evacuations affected second homes and hotels in the Gadiovar region, as well as rural lodges near by.

The smoke and ash were visible in Algodonales, Ronda and the village of Zahara de la Sierra.

Road closures due to rapid spread

The flames crossed the main road from Ronda to Las Veguetas. This road, and the Grazalema – Zahara link via Ribera Del Gaidovar were closed. The park’s hills and valleys helped the fire spread faster than expected.

Extensive resources tackle blaze

The emergency agency of Andalucia activated INFOCA operational’situation one’ (the highest alert) over risks to people and property.dalucia’s emergency agency activated INFOCA operational ‘situation one’ (the highest alert) over risks to people and property. An advanced command post In Grazalema’s main square that was used during the February floods, a new park has opened.

To combat the fire, over 150 ground crews and 15 aircrafts were sent. The focus was on the right flank as they advanced to Ribera Del Gaidovar, with an upcoming possible change in wind direction that could increase intensity.

Initial evacuation figures break down

There were 60 guests in total. Hotel Fuerte in GrazalemaAmong them, forty residents of nearby homes were displaced and nine residents from La Vegueta. Later, even more residents had to leave Ribera. So far, the flames did not reach the hotel or homes. However, rural spots where animals were exposed were severely affected.

Housing options available for temporary accommodation

The staff opened the El Olivar Pavilion for the displaced. Initially, it was only used by one family. The majority moved to other homes in the village. Zahara de la Sierra set up its town hall’s function room to accommodate people stuck in the area due to road cuts.

Leaders urge caution

Antonio Sanz, vice president of Junta de Andalucia stated that this is a major challenge for Grazalema. This comes after the flooding. He sent out a message urging calm and confirmed that resources were focused on saving the inhabited areas. Temperatures were high and the Levante winds kept the fires burning in the rough terrain of the Sierra Nevada. Officials warned the evacuation numbers could continue to rise.