More Than 80,000 People Evacuated or Confined as Wildfires Continue Across Madrid and Ávila

More than 80,000 people have now been evacuated or instructed to remain indoors as major wildfires continue to burn across the Community of Madrid and the province of Ávila, making it one of the largest civil protection operations in recent years.

Authorities say the figure includes both residents forced to leave their homes and those confined to their communities because of the advancing fires and heavy smoke.

The largest fires are affecting communities in south-west Madrid, including Villa del Prado, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Pelayos de la Presa and Navas del Rey, while another major blaze continues in the Burgohondo area of Ávila.

Emergency services remain focused on protecting lives and property as firefighters, the Military Emergencies Unit (UME) and aerial resources continue working in difficult conditions.

The government has declared a National Emergency, allowing the Ministry of the Interior to coordinate the response across the affected regions.

Officials have warned that changing wind conditions could lead to further evacuations or confinement orders and are urging residents to follow official instructions, avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from affected areas while firefighting operations continue.