Wildfire Situation Update: September 28, 2026

As of September 28, 2026, the current wildfire season has seen a substantial increase in burnt areas across Europe. The total area affected this season to date stands at 733,155 hectares. This figure is notably higher than the 20-year average for the period between 2006 and 2025, which was 400,617 hectares. While the season is not yet concluded, the current burnt area remains below the full 2025 season total of 1,079,538 hectares.

Focusing on Spain, the country has experienced a significant wildfire season. To date, 210,104 hectares have been affected across Spain. Closer to home, within a 250-kilometre radius of Marbella, the cumulative burnt area for the 2026 season stands at 56,715 hectares. These figures indicate a challenging period for wildfire management across the region.

Implications for Costa del Sol Homeowners

For homeowners on the Costa del Sol, these statistics underscore the elevated risk environment. A significantly higher amount of land burnt both nationally and regionally implies that fuel loads in surrounding areas, while possibly reduced in some patches, remain a concern. Increased frequency and intensity of wildfires are trends that necessitate a proactive approach to property protection. The proximity of significant fire activity within 250 km serves as a reminder that even if direct threats are not immediate, the environmental conditions supporting large fires are present.

The general behaviour of wildfires dictates that during periods of high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, even small ignitions can escalate rapidly. While the larger international incidents in Australia and Mozambique are geographically distant, they highlight the global challenges of wildfire management under changing climatic conditions. On the Costa del Sol, vigilance and preparation remain paramount. Ensuring that defensible space is maintained around properties and that fire-resistant materials are considered for home improvements are crucial steps. FireShield Technologies continues to advocate for robust, long-term wildfire defence strategies to mitigate these risks.

Worldwide Large Wildfire Events (Past 10 Days)

• Forest fires in Australia: 53,256 ha (September 18-27)
• Forest fires in Mozambique: 42,964 ha (September 12-27)
• Forest fires in Mozambique: 42,870 ha (September 12-27)
• Forest fires in Australia: 41,632 ha (September 15-27)
• Forest fires in Australia: 34,917 ha (September 13-27)
• Forest fires in Australia: 34,425 ha (September 20-27)

Figures in this update come from the Copernicus EFFIS and GDACS satellite feeds and are refreshed automatically. Burnt-area estimates are provisional until mapping is completed.