Spain Lifts Lockdown for Thousands as Forest Fire Eases

 Spanish authorities have lifted lockdown restrictions for thousands of residents and visitors in the Valencia region, effective July 9, 2025, as a major forest fire that ravaged the area shows signs of subsiding. 

The decision was announced by the regional government following a significant reduction in the fire’s intensity, which had forced the evacuation of over 3,000 people from towns like Llutxent and Pinet since it began on June 30, 2025. The blaze, fueled by a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C, destroyed approximately 1,200 hectares of forest and agricultural land before emergency services, including 500 firefighters and 12 water-dropping aircraft, gained control.

The lifting of restrictions came after rainfall on July 8 provided critical relief, allowing firefighters to contain 80% of the fire’s perimeter by midday on July 9, according to the regional emergency services. Residents are returning to their homes under strict advisories to avoid fire-damaged areas due to ongoing hazards like unstable trees and ash fallout. 

The Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, praised the coordinated response but warned of potential flare-ups, with a task force deployed to monitor the situation. Environmental groups have called for a review of forest management practices, citing climate change as a factor, while local businesses estimate losses of €5 million, prompting calls for government aid.