Stay away from forests: Valencian government activates level 3 wildfire emergency

People living in or visiting the Costa Blanca are being urged to stay away from forests and natural parks after the Valencian government introduced its highest wildfire alert, closing access to some of the region’s most popular outdoor areas.

The Generalitat Valenciana has activated Pre-emergency Level 3, the maximum level under its wildfire prevention plan, following a combination of soaring temperatures, dry vegetation and unfavourable weather conditions that have created an extreme risk of forest fires. The emergency measures remain in force until at least Thursday, July 9, although they could be extended if conditions fail to improve.

Popular walking routes and parks closed

The restrictions mean the public is temporarily banned from entering natural parks and forest areas across the Valencian Community, including several well-known Costa Blanca beauty spots.

Access to woodland trails, mountain paths and forest tracks has been suspended, while hiking, recreational activities and organised sporting events that pass through forested areas have also been cancelled. Temporary campsites in forest zones have been ordered to close, and forestry work has been halted until the danger eases.

Authorities have also reinforced the ban on lighting fires in or within 500 metres of forest land. This includes barbecues, agricultural burning and any activity capable of creating sparks that could ignite dry vegetation.

Heatwave pushes fire danger to extreme levels

The emergency measures come as a powerful heatwave grips eastern Spain, with temperatures climbing towards 40C in inland areas and remaining exceptionally high overnight.

The prolonged hot, dry weather has left vegetation tinder dry, allowing even a small ignition source to develop into a fast-moving wildfire. Emergency officials say preventing fires now is far easier than trying to control them once they start.

Several municipalities, including Xàbia, have already activated special emergency plans, increasing surveillance around forested areas and asking residents to avoid unnecessary visits to the countryside until conditions improve.

Public urged to follow restrictions

Officials are asking residents and tourists to respect all closures and report any sign of smoke or fire immediately by calling the emergency services.

The restrictions are designed to protect both people and the region’s natural environment during what authorities describe as one of the most dangerous wildfire periods of the summer.

With temperatures expected to remain high over the coming days, emergency services say everyone’s cooperation will be essential in reducing the risk of devastating forest fires across the Costa Blanca and the wider Valencian Community.