In the municipality of Tuéjar at the Province of Valencia a wildfire near Tuéjar burned around 690 hectares of vegetation within hours on 15 September 2026. The incident command of the Generalitat Valenciana reported an approximately 17-kilometre perimeter that evening. Because of possible risks to inhabited areas and infrastructure, the Centro de Coordinación de Emergencias activated operational Level 2 of the Plan Especial de Incendios Forestales (PEIF). The Unidad Militar de Emergencias was called in to provide support.
According to the authorities, around 14 aircraft and numerous ground units were deployed at one point, including Brigadas forestales, Autobombas, local fire brigades and specialist teams from the Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos. Around 25 people were evacuated as a precaution, including residents near a campsite and agricultural holdings. Two firefighters suffered minor injuries; one was taken to La Fe Hospital in Valencia with burns, and another to a hospital in Llíria with bruising. Neither is in a life-threatening condition.
The fire was located near the Cueva de las Palomas . Gusty winds and dry vegetation helped the fire spread and hampered firefighting efforts. Incident commanders reported a slight easing on some fronts overnight; as the wind dropped, the situation was expected to stabilise at least. However, full containment was not initially in sight.
Tuéjar mayor Carlos Tarazón said the community was deeply affected. He said the fire was more than just a wildfire for local people and was also taking an emotional toll. Parts of the Alto Turia Biosphere Reserve are located in the affected area. Environmental authorities said they would assess the impact on flora and fauna over the coming days.
There are no firm findings yet on the cause of the fire. The Guardia Civil and the environmental branch SEPRONA have opened investigations, with support from experts from the Generalitat Valenciana. Investigations at the fire site will begin when safety conditions allow. The authorities urged the public to follow instructions via the 112 emergency number and keep away from restricted areas.
Firefighters plan to focus on securing the flanks and protecting sensitive areas until the weather and terrain allow a broader attack on the fire front.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).