On August 12, Spain will be at the center of a rare astronomical event — a total solar eclipse. However, instead of preparing solely for the expected influx of tourists, authorities are also having to contend with an elevated risk of wildfires.
The eclipse is expected to attract around 6 million people to Spain. Authorities have designated 660 official viewing sites, while around 1.5 million vehicles could take to the roads as visitors travel toward rural areas along the eclipse path. At the same time, temperatures in some regions could reach 40°C, while the wildfire risk is rated as high or very high.
The Eclipse Becomes a Major Security Operation
More than 35,000 law enforcement officers will be deployed to help maintain public safety. Authorities are concerned not only about traffic and large crowds, but also about accidental fires caused by discarded cigarettes, barbecues or vehicles parked near dry vegetation.
Since the beginning of the year, wildfires have already destroyed around 200,000 hectares of land — approximately six times more than during the same period last year. Several major fires were still burning in the country on the eve of the eclipse.
Tourists Are Not Canceling Their Trips
Despite the risks, interest in the event remains extremely high. International searches for inland Spanish destinations have more than tripled, while around 70% of rental motorhomes, campervans and caravans have already been booked for the eclipse period.
Authorities are urging tourists to use only official viewing areas, avoid lighting fires and refrain from parking near dry vegetation. Some municipalities have already canceled their own eclipse-related events, fearing that a few minutes of astronomical spectacle could turn into a days-long battle against wildfires.
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