A massive forest fire that broke out in the mountainous region of Guadalajara north of Madrid has engulfed about 13,000 hectares, forcing Spanish authorities to evacuate more than 700 people from surrounding areas, while some 300 firefighters, supported by helicopters, continue their ongoing efforts to control the spreading flames.

Authorities confirmed no casualties from the fire, while the government of Castilla-La Mancha described the blaze as one of the difficult fires the region faces, due to the mountainous terrain and the difficulty of accessing the ignition points.

The outbreak of the fire coincides with Spain's preparation to face a new heat wave, in which temperatures could exceed 45 degrees Celsius in some areas, amid growing warnings of increased wildfire risks due to climate change and record-high temperatures.