Wildfire remains out of control at Spanish holiday resort

A wildfire in east Spain remains out of control on Tuesday morning, although emergency services are confident to stabilize it during the coming hours.

The wildfire has caused over 1,400 people to be evacuated from their homes close to the town of Javia.

The fire, which has several focal points between the towns of Javia and Benitatxell, has destroyed over 800 hectares of woodland and several homes in the area, which consists of housing estates built among woodland.

Monday saw 28 aircraft, 16 fire engines and 222 members of Spain's Military Emergency Unit combat the flames in temperatures approaching 40 degrees centigrade and with gusty winds, which helped the flames spread.

Although the aircraft had to retire at nightfall, they were back in action early on Tuesday morning, while firefighters worked throughout the night.

The region is well known as a popular holiday resort and many Spaniards, as well as many foreigners have holiday homes in the region, which is also popular with expatriots from many European countries.

Authorities believe the fire was started deliberately as it appeared to begin in several different places at almost same time, something confirmed by Ximo Puig, the President of the Valencia Regional Government.

"All of the evidence" points to it being arson, he commented, adding that whoever responsible could expect a severe punishment when they were caught.

"I have to try and control the words I use to describe this new kind of environmental terrorism, but it goes beyond putting in risk out natural patrimony, because it has also put human lives at risk," said the official.

"The Penal Code has been toughened in this aspect and whoever starts a fire has committed a crime and can expect the full weight of the law to fall on them," said Puig. Endit