Smoke from Benahavis wildfire now visible from all Costa del Sol as winds whip flames along the road

Smoke from a fast-moving forest fire in Benahavis, Costa del Sol, was visible from all parts of the region as high winds whipped the flames along Benahavis Road. The blaze, which began this Sunday in the Ermita del Rosario area, quickly gained attention after smoke reached such a height that it could be seen from Monteros in Marbella.

Eyewitnesses reported the fire to be near Benahavis Road and warned that it may be threatening the area surrounding El Paraiso Golf Club. Strong winds were identified as key factors in the fire's rapid spread and ability to jump over obstacles.

Rescue crews from INFOCA, the Civil Protection Agency of Andalusia, were immediately dispatched to contain the fire. Initial resources included two helicopters, one medium and one light, along with 23 forest firefighters, two operations technicians, one environmental agent, and a fire engine. Additional engines soon arrived, and more resources from Cartama, Estepona, and other nearby areas joined the effort. The fire also created a pyrocumulus cloud, an ominous sign of intense heat.

Although the fire was located several hundred meters south of Benahavis village, rumors circulated that evacuations may be taking place. Authorities advised residents to keep a safe distance from the fire zone and Benahavis Road. Those experiencing smoke drifting towards their homes were advised to close windows and protect children, older individuals, and those with breathing issues. In case of any new outbreaks, residents were instructed to call 112 immediately.

This incident was separate from the larger Benahavis-Estepona fire that occurred in July, which had forced mass evacuations. September is still within Andalucia's high-risk fire season, which runs until October 15. Recent fires in other parts of Malaga, such as Cutar and Mijas, have demonstrated how swiftly a small fire can escalate and demand significant intervention.