Wildfire in southern Catalonia forces a number of home evacuations

Fifty-eight firefighting crews have been dispatched to control a fire in southern Catalonia that is affecting more than 500 hectares of land and has forced a number of people out of their homes and farms.  

The fire is burning in the Torre de l'Espanyol and Vinebre in the Ribera d'Ebre regions. The flames have also forced the closure of five roads. With regard to evacuations, they affect the areas of Palma d'Ebre, Bovera, Flix, Maials and Llardecans. 

In putting out the fire, the crews are prioritizing its right flank, which is spreading faster because of the wind.

Across Catalonia this week, a heatwave is expected to see temperatures soar up to 40 degrees at times.