Madrid wildfires prompt evacuations and shelters in Alcalá and Alcobendas

Wildfires sweeping the southwest of the Community of Madrid have forced evacuations across several municipalities. In Alcalá de Henares, the municipal pavilion in Espartales was opened as a shelter, receiving 53 evacuees and prepared to accommodate up to 200 people. Civil Protection volunteers, local police and municipal services set up registration, health and nutrition assistance, and provide facilities for people with reduced mobility. The shelter is supported by donations of food and basic supplies from Ahorramás.

In Alcobendas, the municipal sports centre was used to host the first 165 evacuees from Navalagamella, with capacity for up to 400 residents. The operation is coordinated by the Madrid emergency agency, the Red Cross and the Military Emergency Unit, with additional help from local volunteers, police, and private donors such as Carrefour and the catering firm Urrechu. Both municipalities have deployed vehicles, seating, and waste‑collection resources to sustain the temporary accommodation while the fires continue to be fought.