Spain Faces Devastating Summer Wildfires Impacting Agriculture and Tourism
Spain's worst wildfire summer has scorched 0.8% of its land, inflicting severe losses on honey producers, livestock farmers and rural tourism while highlighting challenges in depopulated areas.
Unprecedented Wildfires Rage in North-West Spain
Lightning ignited a wildfire near Porto de Sanabria in mid-August, fueling a blaze that scorched over 20,000 hectares and forced thousands of residents to evacuate across Castilla y León, Galicia and Extremadura. These fires contributed to a record summer, burning 0.8% of Spain's total land area.
Devastating Impact on Apiculture
Honey producers in rural north-west Spain have borne a heavy brunt. José Antonio Bruña narrowly saved his 1,500 hives, but the surrounding flora his bees rely on was destroyed, cutting his honey output by at least 50% this year and potentially for the next two to three years.
Livestock Farmers Under Stress
Farmers like Fernando García of Castromil have lost cattle to flames and burns, with around 30 animals dying this summer. Many have had to relocate herds and keep livestock confined amid constant threats, and face soaring insurance premiums as insurers adjust to increased wildfire risk.
Tourism Sector Suffers Major Losses
Southern coastal areas largely avoided flames, but rural tourism hotspots were hit hard. The Sanabria Lake natural park closed its shores at the height of the season, costing bar-restaurante operator Óscar David García López an estimated €80,000 in lost revenue and wages. The Hosteltur association warned these blazes damage both the material assets and the reputation of Spain's rural destinations.
Rural Depopulation and Infrastructure Gaps Exposed
These fires have underscored the divide between urban and 'empty Spain', where 90% of the population occupies just 30% of the land. Residents point to inadequate infrastructure, transport links and services, and stress that strict environmental regulations add to their challenges.
Spain's record summer wildfires have devastated farms, hives and tourist sites, revealing the growing vulnerability and inequities faced by rural communities.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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