An out-of-control forest fire broke out on Thursday afternoon in the Mentrida region, Toledo province, covering over 3,200 hectares and causing a massive cloud of smoke that reached the southern districts of Madrid, the BBC reported, reports News.bg.
The fire started around 3:00 p.m. local time and spread quickly due to strong winds and temperatures reaching 37°C. The flames headed towards several towns, including Casarubios del Monte, Villamanta and Navalcarnero.
Authorities ordered the evacuation of over 100 households in the Calipo Fado residential area in Casarubios del Monte, one of the worst-hit areas. About 50 people were evacuated in the early stages of the fire. A section of the highway between Toledo and Madrid was also temporarily closed due to thick smoke and low visibility.
More than 150 firefighters, including aerial teams, are working to put out the fire, supported by the government's Emergency Firefighting Unit. One residential area in Toledo has also been temporarily closed as a precaution.
Local authorities have urged residents in the affected areas to stay indoors and not open their windows. The sky over Madrid turned orange in the afternoon due to smoke carried by strong winds.
Spain remains under a warning for extreme temperatures and an increased risk of fires.