Spain, fire in Valdecaballeros. Flames threaten homes; over 400 people evacuated.

A large forest fire has broken out in the town of Valdecaballeros, in the province of Badajoz in Extremadura (a western region bordering Portugal), worsening in recent hours due to strong winds. According to initial estimates, yet to be officially confirmed, the flames could affect approximately 2,000 hectares. The 112 emergency service reported this. Among the measures taken, the evacuation of the village of Cijara, where approximately 300 people were gathered for local celebrations, was ordered. The Red Cross has mobilized resources to set up temporary shelters, in coordination with the regional government. A campsite with 140 people had already been evacuated earlier for safety reasons. The N-502 national road has also been closed to traffic between kilometers 210 and 212, and drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution and follow the instructions of the Guardia Civil on site. The regional government of Extremadura activated Operational Level 1 of the Special Civil Protection Plan against Forest Fires (Infocaex) at 9:45 PM on Saturday, allowing for an intensified response and coordination between the various emergency services. According to the Department of Forestry Management, the fire's progress is "quite unfavorable," and numerous land and air vehicles are currently engaged in extinguishing operations.