SMOKE AND ASH CLOUD BLANKETS MADRID SKY AS TOLEDO FIRE RAGES

Flames in the city of Toledo have caused evacuations, shut down the A-5 highway, and sent a massive column of smoke visible from Madrid, leading to respiratory issues for some residents. Emergency services are continuing their efforts in the area with both aerial and ground resources.

A fire that ignited Thursday in the mountains of Méntrida (Toledo) produced a thick plume of smoke, visible across much of southern Madrid and causing alarm in cities like Móstoles, Alcorcón, and Navalcarnero. The blaze, now contained and under control, has scorched over 3,200 hectares.

However, authorities expressed concern that strong winds on Friday could "complicate the work" of extinguishing the fire. The inferno began at 3:02 PM on Thursday, prompting the activation of Infocam Emergency Plan Level 2 due to the threat to nearby infrastructure.

As a precautionary measure, the residential complex of Calypo-Fado, located near the Madrid border, was first confined and then evacuated. By early Friday morning, 50 of the evacuated residents were able to return home.

At least 123 soldiers, 42 vehicles, and 3 UME drones are currently engaged in firefighting operations. Ground units, coordination personnel, and additional resources from the Community of Madrid, including fire trucks, hoses, and heavy machinery, are also assisting.