Authorities in southern Spain have reported the death of a British individual due to the recent wildfires that swept through the region. The victim, a 93-year-old British woman, sustained injuries in the fire and was taken to a hospital where she later passed away from burns covering approximately 20% of her body.
This fatality brings the total number of deaths from the wildfires to 13, with at least four of the deceased believed to be British nationals. Additionally, two British hikers were discovered alive but severely burned, with reports indicating that they suffered around 40% burns.
The hikers were found by Civil Guards after an extensive search effort, showcasing the dedication and experience of the rescue team. Despite their injuries, the pair managed to raise attention to their location and were successfully rescued after a challenging two-hour operation.
Currently, the survivors are in serious condition in a hospital, with their lives not considered to be at risk. Spanish authorities suspect that all the victims were foreign tourists who attempted to escape on foot after abandoning their vehicles in the rugged terrain affected by the fires.
Spain has been facing recurring heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 40C in recent years. The tragic events highlight the dangers posed by such extreme weather conditions and the importance of being vigilant and prepared in the face of natural disasters.