Forest fire in Benidorm forces the closure of the AP-7 and triggers a local alert.

A forest fire declared this Saturday in Benidorm has put local authorities and residents on alert, forcing the closure of the AP-7, the Mediterranean highway, in the direction of Valencia. The fire, which broke out around a quarter to six in the evening, has generated a critical situation, as its proximity has led to the suspension of electricity supply in the affected area. Since the outbreak of the fire, emergency teams have been working tirelessly to control the situation. By 6:24 PM, the deployment for extinguishing the fire included a significant mobilization, featuring seven aerial units and two helicopter-borne brigades. Additionally, twelve units from the Provincial Consortium of Firefighters of Alicante and four units from the Forest Firefighters of the Generalitat have been deployed, reflecting the seriousness of the incident. The AP-7, one of the main traffic arteries along the Mediterranean coast, has been affected not only by the temporary closure but also by the concerns of drivers passing through the area. Authorities have urged motorists to seek alternative routes and to remain calm in light of a situation that could prolong, while firefighters battle the flames. The fire has also raised environmental concerns, as the Benidorm area is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. The rapid spread of the fire has led specialists to assess the potential damage that local ecosystems could suffer. Firefighters have reiterated the importance of prevention, especially during periods of high temperatures and with weather conditions conducive to the outbreak of fires. The firefighting brigades have been working under difficult conditions, facing not only the fire but also winds that could favor the spread of the flames. Coordination among the various emergency bodies has been key to trying to control the fire as quickly as possible. The situation, while serious, is under constant supervision, and conditions are expected to improve to facilitate extinguishing efforts. Throughout the afternoon, residents in areas close to the fire have been informed about the situation and have received safety recommendations. The evacuation of some homes has been considered a preventive measure, and authorities have kept the public informed about the fire's progression and the actions being taken. This fire in Benidorm is not an isolated case. Over the past few summers, the region has faced multiple wildfires, leading to a debate about the management and prevention of these natural disasters. The community and local authorities are increasingly aware of the need to develop effective strategies to mitigate the risk of fires in the future. Amid this situation, the solidarity of neighbors and the community has become evident, with numerous offers of help and support for emergency services. Such incidents also highlight the importance of raising awareness about environmental care and the need to implement measures that reduce the risk of wildfires. As events unfold, authorities continue to work hard to control the fire and restore normalcy in the area. Collaboration between various entities and the commitment of citizens are essential in facing adversity and protecting both human life and the natural environment of Benidorm. The coming hours will be crucial in determining the future of the situation and the appropriate response to this challenge.