More than 1,000 people have been forced to flee after a fierce forest fire broke out on the popular tourist island of Gran Canaria.
Several nearby towns were evacuated on Sunday as the wildfire spread towards a National Park and an area popular with holidaymakers on the Spanish island.
More than 200 firefighters were enlisted to help battle the blaze, which reached temperatures of more than 32C.
The Gran Canaria fire brigade tweeted: “We are overwhelmed by the situation. We continue working and fighting for our island.”
One witness, Carla Rodriguez, said the scene was “one of the most painful images I’ve seen in my life.”
She added: “The first time I saw the fire we were reaching the diversion to Juncalillo and I realised how close it was. I did not expect it, since I had read that it was under control in different areas.
"But after the party, when we returned, we decided to look again to see how much the fire had progressed and seeing it out of control was devastating. The tears came out since I love nature and seeing it burn away was quite horrifying.”
Police believe the fire was started by someone using a soldering iron and have arrested a 55-year-old Spanish man in connection with the blaze.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Gran Canaria wildfires, plus the latest travel advice if you are travelling to the island:
Where are the wildfires?
How dangerous are the fires?
Surrounding villages have been evacuated and residents affected have been spending the night in municipal buildings including sports centres, schools and community halls.
Red Cross officials have confirmed no residents were injured, although several properties are thought to have been burned.
Two firefighters needed treatment for burn injuries.
Is it safe to travel to Gran Canaria?
The Foreign Office is yet to issue any restrictions or warnings for those travelling to Gran Canaria.
A Foreign Office spokesperson said: “Staff at our consulate in Las Palmas are monitoring the situation and stand ready to assist British people who need help.”
