Spain's Murcia and Madrid regions restrict forest activities due to extreme heat

The regional governments of Murcia and Madrid have imposed temporary bans on activities in forested areas as a severe heat wave pushes temperatures to 40‑45 °C.

In Murcia, the Environment Council limited recreation, sports and hunting in montes, prohibited open‑air burning of vegetation and urged residents to report any signs of fire. Patrols of the Civil Guard and the Forest Fire Prevention Service have been increased, and the restrictions may be extended depending on the weather.

Madrid’s emergency authority ordered a total suspension of fire use and any machinery that could generate sparks in forest zones, also canceling fireworks and similar devices within a 400‑metre buffer around the woods. The ban runs from the afternoon of 21 July until at least 23 July, with possible extensions if the extreme conditions persist.