Wildfire Near Madrid Blankets Spanish Capital in Thick Smoke

An out-of-control wildfire burning on the outskirts of Madrid sent a vast cloud of smoke over the Spanish capital on Friday, as large parts of the country face extreme heat and fire warnings.

Authorities say the blaze, intensified by dry conditions and high winds, has not yet been contained. Temperatures in Madrid soared to 37°C (98.6°F), worsening the fire risk and prompting emergency alerts across multiple regions.

The thick smoke darkened skies over the city, forcing residents indoors and disrupting visibility. Firefighters have been deployed to battle the flames, while aerial footage captured plumes of smoke spreading rapidly over residential and commercial areas.

Spain’s meteorological agency has issued red and orange alerts across several provinces, warning of a dangerous combination of soaring temperatures, dry terrain, and gusty winds that could trigger more fires.

Officials have urged the public to avoid outdoor activities and remain vigilant, as emergency services work to control the blaze and prevent its spread toward populated zones. No injuries or evacuations have yet been reported.

The fire is one of several burning across Spain amid a sweltering summer that has already brought multiple heatwaves, heightening concerns over climate-fueled disasters in southern Europe.