After a first night marked by uncertainty but supported by a significant display of solidarity, residents evacuated due to the Niebla wildfire are feeling calmer in Zalamea la Real. The Red Cross, Civil Protection, municipal workers, businesses, and numerous local residents have mobilized since Saturday to make the stay of those affected as manageable as possible.
Ultimately, 25 people stayed overnight at the reception facility set up in the Teatro Municipal Ruiz Tatay. Another nine joined them on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of people being assisted to over thirty. The mayor of Zalamea la Real, Diego Rodríguez Pérez, stated that although they were able to rest, "they slept little, thinking about what they left behind, their homes and their belongings."
The night passed without significant incidents. Among the evacuated was a 99-year-old woman from El Pozuelo who, due to her advanced age, was transferred with her son to the Zalamea la Real senior residence for more appropriate care. Current municipal forecasts indicate that the affected individuals will have to remain away from their homes at least until Monday, awaiting decisions from the emergency management based on the fire's evolution.
Urgent needs have arisen, such as attending to livestock in the evacuated areas. The 112 emergency service is informing affected individuals about a system set up for justified access to properties by residents to care for livestock and other emergencies, like collecting basic medication. These movements will be controlled at access points by the Guardia Civil and authorized only for justified necessities.
From Berrocal, its mayor, Ángel Romero, acknowledged that residents spent the night with "evident uncertainty and unease," but assured they are well and cared for thanks to the deployed resources in Zalamea la Real. He expressed gratitude for the collaboration of the Zalamea la Real Town Hall, Red Cross, and Civil Protection, as well as for the volunteers offering their help.
Solidarity has also extended to local businesses and hospitality. "Shops are facilitating access to essential products," explained the mayor. Evacuees also have breakfast at the reception facility, although some local eateries near the theater have provided service for those who preferred to eat out. The initial improvisation of the first hours has given way to more organized attention, with catering services now preparing meals.
The total number of people evacuated due to the Niebla wildfire has risen to 467. While no new evacuations were ordered overnight, a family of three, including two minors, was preemptively evacuated from La Encinita on Sunday morning, along with four others from La Comandanta. The first vice-president and Minister of the Presidency, Health, and Emergencies of the Junta de Andalucía, Antonio Sanz, reiterated the importance of not returning home until the emergency management confirms it is safe.
