Dutch volunteers at Spanish animal shelter await wildfire's path, fearing for animals and homes

A raging wildfire in southern Spain, near Los Gallardos, has Dutch volunteers at an animal shelter on edge, describing the situation as "terrifying." Hundreds have been evacuated from the affected area, while others, like the volunteers, are in a state of anxious waiting. Vanessa, a Dutch volunteer at a shelter located about 3-4 kilometers from the fire's edge, explained that the facility rescues dogs from the region for rehoming, including in the Netherlands. While the main town of Los Gallardos is being evacuated, the shelter, situated to the east of the town, is currently considered safe due to favorable winds. The shelter houses approximately 225 animals, primarily dogs and puppies, along with some cats. Despite the apparent safety, the proximity of the fire and the ash falling in her garden cause Vanessa significant distress, particularly her fear for the animals' well-being and the potential threat to her own home, located just five minutes away. An evacuation plan is in place, with local veterinarians and restaurants offering assistance should the animals need to be moved. The fire has already claimed twelve lives, with 23 people reported missing, and has destroyed at least 3200 hectares of land, spreading to neighboring municipalities like Bédar and Antas. Vanessa has heard reports of homes being completely destroyed, and one of the four severely injured individuals is a fellow shelter volunteer who suffered severe burns and is in critical condition. Another volunteer, Shannon Zijlema (23), described the rapid escalation of the fire, from initial smoke sightings to a black sky and visible flames within hours. She and other volunteers prepared animal carriers in vehicles overnight, anticipating a potential evacuation. Although the fire appears to be moving north and away from the shelter, the situation remains tense, with authorities ordering further precautionary evacuations in areas like Alfaix due to worsening weather conditions and increased wind. The regional government has declared three days of mourning for the deceased.