Massive Fire Outbreak Ravages Hillside Near Popular Tourist Destination in Mallorca
By Elena Vargas | May 25, 2025
Mallorca, Spain – A devastating wildfire broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning on the outskirts of Port de Pollença, one of Mallorca’s most popular tourist destinations, prompting widespread evacuations and a full-scale emergency response. Authorities are still working to determine the cause of the blaze, which has consumed over 1,200 hectares of woodland and threatened several residential areas and holiday resorts.
Emergency services responded to the first reports of smoke at around 2:45 a.m. local time. Within an hour, strong winds and unseasonably dry conditions allowed the flames to spread rapidly across the Tramuntana foothills, overwhelming initial firefighting efforts.
“This is one of the most aggressive fires we’ve seen in Mallorca in the last decade,” said Captain Marta Llinàs of the Balearic Emergency Services. “We had crews on the ground within 40 minutes, but the fire moved faster than anticipated due to high gusts reaching over 60 km/h.”
Widespread Evacuations
Local officials issued an immediate evacuation order for parts of Port de Pollença, including the El Vilà and Boquer neighborhoods, by 4:00 a.m. Dozens of families, along with tourists staying in nearby villas and boutique hotels, were forced to flee on foot or by car, many still in pajamas or carrying hastily packed bags.
“We woke up to sirens and people shouting outside,” said Olivia Bennett, a British tourist staying with her family at a villa near the hills. “We looked out the window and saw a red glow on the mountains. It was surreal. We just grabbed what we could and ran.”
Evacuees were directed to temporary shelters set up in the local sports complex and community centers in Alcúdia and Pollença town. By mid-morning, more than 800 people had been evacuated, though officials later confirmed that no casualties or serious injuries had been reported.
Air and Ground Response
As dawn broke, the full scale of the operation became visible. More than 300 firefighters, 12 fire engines, and at least six aerial units, including Canadair water bombers flown in from mainland Spain, were deployed to battle the blaze. Firefighting helicopters made repeated trips between the sea and the hillside, dousing hotspots with seawater.
“We’re doing everything possible to contain the fire’s eastern flank to prevent it from jumping into inhabited areas,” said Joan Perelló, a spokesperson for the regional forest service. “The terrain is steep and access is limited, which complicates the ground response.”
By midday, flames were still visible on the ridgelines, though progress had been made in the northwestern sector thanks to the aerial efforts and a sudden drop in wind speed. Firefighters set up firebreaks to protect critical infrastructure, including the road to Formentor and several high-voltage power lines.
Tourists Advised to Stay Indoors
Mallorca’s Civil Protection agency urged tourists in Port de Pollença and surrounding towns to remain indoors and avoid traveling unless necessary. Thick plumes of smoke drifted across the bay, prompting health warnings for residents with respiratory conditions.
“We’re asking everyone to keep windows shut and wear masks if they must go outside,” said Dr. Ramon Carreras, head of emergency services at the Pollença health center. “Smoke inhalation can be just as dangerous as the fire itself.”
Hotels along the coast have implemented emergency procedures, with some offering complimentary shelter and food to those displaced by the fire. Several tour operators have suspended excursions into the mountains and natural parks for at least 48 hours.
Speculation About Cause
While the fire’s origin remains under investigation, initial speculation points to either a discarded cigarette or an illegal campfire. Authorities confirmed that no lightning activity was recorded in the area overnight.
“We’re looking closely at satellite data and interviewing witnesses who were in the area late Saturday,” said Inspector Llorenç Vidal of the Guardia Civil. “Human negligence cannot be ruled out.”
Mallorca, like much of the Mediterranean, has faced increasingly severe wildfire seasons in recent years due to climate change, with higher temperatures and prolonged droughts turning forests into tinderboxes. April and May have been the driest months on record for the island in over 20 years.
Community Support and Political Response
The local community has rallied around those affected. Volunteers have been delivering supplies to evacuation centers, while restaurants and stores have donated food and essentials.
In Palma, Balearic President Francina Armengol declared a regional emergency and pledged full government support for recovery efforts. “We stand with the people of Pollença and all those affected,” she said in a televised statement. “We will do everything in our power to rebuild and prevent this from happening again.”
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also expressed his concern on social media, stating: “Monitoring the tragic fire in Mallorca closely. The government is ready to assist with all available resources.”
Road to Recovery
As of 6:00 p.m., firefighters had successfully contained approximately 60% of the blaze, though officials warned that conditions could shift overnight. The focus remains on preventing flare-ups and protecting at-risk properties.
While the full environmental and economic impact remains to be seen, experts estimate that the fire could take months to fully extinguish and years for the affected area to recover ecologically.
For now, the residents and visitors of Mallorca are left with the sobering reminder of nature’s force—and the growing urgency to prepare for a more fire-prone future.