At least 12 people have died in a wildfire in Los Gallardos in the southeastern province of Almeria, according to the Andalusian regional government, while six have been injured.

Axar.az reports, citing BBC, some of the victims were found inside vehicles which had been engulfed by the flames. Witnesses say the fire was caused by a downed power line, with the blaze spreading quickly to a nearby wooded area. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire.

A sustained heatwave with temperatures of around 40C (104F) has caused wildfires across southern Europe.

Hundreds of firefighters are battling major incidents in France, Portugal and Spain, with thousands forced to leave their homes.

"The number of people who died in the fire in Los Gallardos has risen to 12 after the confirmation of six more deaths," the regional government of Andalusia said in a statement.

The head of the regional government, Juanma Moreno, called the deaths "a tragedy". Writing on X after an initial toll of six deaths was announced, he said: "Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief."

About 150 firefighters were working to quell the fire in a hamlet called Bedar. Among those injured was a person who was taken to hospital with smoke inhalation, and another who suffered burns. Four people were treated at the scene for minor burns and respiratory problems caused by the heavy smoke.

The fire also led to road closures, while 1,000 residents were evacuated, according to emergency services.