Thirteen people have died following severe wildfires that swept through southern Spain last week, with seven of the victims confirmed as British nationals. Spanish authorities reported the fatalities as firefighters worked to contain the blaze, which affected the province of Almería and surrounding areas.

The fire began on Thursday in Almería, reportedly triggered by an electrical cable falling onto a road and igniting nearby vegetation. Fueled by extreme temperatures and strong winds, the blaze quickly spread, ultimately burning approximately 7,000 hectares. The affected area included the village of Bédar, which was among the hardest hit.

Among the British victims was a 93-year-old woman who was admitted to hospital with burns covering roughly 20 percent of her body; she died on Sunday. Another four British nationals were found deceased inside a burnt-out car. Pete and Fran Gillam, residents of Bédar, were also confirmed dead by their family after several days of searching.

In addition to the seven British fatalities, three Belgians, one American, one French national, and one Spanish citizen also lost their lives in the disaster. Authorities have conducted post-mortem examinations to identify some victims, as several bodies were severely burnt, requiring genetic testing. The number of individuals still missing remains unclear, with some autopsies and formal identifications ongoing.

The wildfire prompted the evacuation of nearly 1,500 people. Cooler temperatures and calmer winds over the weekend allowed firefighters to gain control of the fire, according to Juanma Moreno, president of Andalusia’s regional government. He confirmed that extinguishing efforts were continuing.

Eyewitnesses described harrowing experiences, including one British traveler who encountered the fire taking over a major motorway en route to Malaga airport. Authorities and emergency services continue their response efforts to prevent further damage and loss of life.

The British Foreign Office stated it is providing support to affected nationals and remains in close contact with Spanish officials to assist families and coordinate consular services. Spanish officials, including a spokeswoman for the Guardia Civil in Almería, have been actively involved in managing the aftermath and investigation into the fire’s origin and impact.