Forest fires on Spain's Costa del Sol

Nature Posted on 31/08/2012

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Thousands of residents and tourists were evacuated from resorts in Marbella on Friday, after forest fires reached the popular resort in the Costa del Sol.

The fire broke out near Malaga late on Thursday night and spread west towards Marbella through forests around Barranco Blanco, between Mijas Costa and Coin.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has asked tourists in the area to follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation procedures. If you have concerns about relatives or friends in the area, you can contact the FCO in Malaga consular offices on: +34 902 109 356 or +34 913 342 194.

Many were forced to evacuate to a sports centre in Marbella, including 200 tourists staying at the La Cala Resort around 20 minutes from Marbella. The hotel escaped without damage and has re-opened to tourists.

Firefighters were aided by aeroplanes and helicopters but struggled to contain the flames, which were fanned by strong winds and hot temperatures. The nearest airport is in Malaga and remains open.

The Costa del Sol is an extremely popular tourist destination, as well as being home to a large community of expatriates.

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In brief : Nature