EXPERTS say Spain needs a comprehensive wildfire prevention plan after blazes destroyed 355,000 hectares and killed eight people in 2025.
The environmental organisation WWF’s latest report, Extreme Fires: The Challenge of Adapting the Landscape, describes last year’s destruction as the worst of the century and warns that firefighting alone cannot address the growing threat.
Spain recorded 63 major forest fires in 2025. 90% of the total area burnt last year took place over just two weeks.
The fires also left 79 people injured and forced 42,000 to evacuate their homes.
The WWF says the figures reflect a shift towards more severe and widespread fires that are harder to control and occur at shorter intervals.
It argues that a model centred on extinguishing blazes has become outdated in the current climate, calling for greater emphasis on prevention and adapting the landscape.
The warning comes as fires in Los Gallardos in Almeria, La Mierla in Guadalajara, and parts of Avila, Madrid and Castellon have highlighted the continuing threat to communities.
READ MORE: Fast-moving wildfire near Costa del Sol finally stabilised after dozens of locals forced to evacuate
The WWF, which has studied forest fires and their causes for more than 20 years, identifies traditional farming, grazing and forestry practices, alongside ecological restoration, as key tools for creating landscapes better able to withstand fire.
Its proposed action plan would go beyond emergency responses, making prevention and sustainable land management central to tackling the problem.
The organisation also urges residents to avoid any behaviour that could spark a blaze, particularly during periods of heightened risk.
For people living near woodland or surrounded by vegetation, it recommends maintaining a vegetation-free strip around the home and ensuring neighbouring tree crowns do not touch.
Roofs and gutters should be kept clear of dry leaves, while gardens should favour less flammable plant species. Residents should also have an evacuation route ready.
WWF encourages consumers to support rural producers using extensive livestock farming, grazing and other sustainable management systems, which it says help maintain the landscape and prevent large-scale fires.
The Spanish-language report and further information are available on WWF Spain’s website.
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