Horror as British pensioner, 93, dies in Spain wildfires

A 93-year-old British woman has become the 13th person to die from the horrific wildfires that spread through southern Spain, officials said. The Andalusian Government said that the pensioner was taken to the hospital on Friday after suffering from burns to about 20% of her body.

At least five Britons have been confirmed to have died from the wildfire that burned through about 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of land. Four bodies were found in a burnt-out car, with the steering wheel to the right.

Regional emergency chief, Antonio Sanz, expressed ​his condolences to the family of the woman and others killed in the wildfire that broke out on Thursday. However, the identities of those who passed away have not yet been formally confirmed.

A British couple was also found in a critical condition, semi-conscious and with severe burns covering 40% of their bodies.

The pair have since returned to Bédar – the village where they live – with their home fortunately surviving the wildfires.

Juanma Morena, president of the regional Government of Andalusia, confirmed that the fire had been contained and its perimeter secured on Sunday afternoon.

More than 1,000 residents have since been given the all-clear to the evacuated villages north of Los Gallardos.

However, Spain’s forensic services data unit, the CID, said that two more people had been reported missing after it began working with authorities in Britain, France and Belgium to formally register their cases, bringing the total to 10.

Family members abroad can now report their loved ones missing and provide DNA samples in their home countries, as more reports are expected in the coming days.

Authorities also said the dead could include some of the people reported as missing.

The wildfires that ripped through southeastern Spain were caused by heatwaves that reached around 40C. The extreme weather, combined with dry ground and strong winds, quickly spread blazes through Los Gallardos.

Mr Morena urged citizens to remain vigilant throughout the summer, as Analusia, the country’s most populous region, has been experiencing around 15 forest fires daily, with the number rising at times to 22.

Spanish Prime minister Pedro Sanchez is due to visit the affected area on Monday.