The major wildfire burning in Spain’s Castellón province since Saturday has scorched approximately 8,500 hectares, with firefighters continuing to battle difficult weather conditions that have hampered containment efforts.

Early Tuesday, the Valencian regional government lifted the lockdown of Vall de Uxó, the municipality where the fire originated. The move marked the first easing of restrictions since the blaze broke out over the weekend.

According to the regional government’s Emergency Services, the wildfire has spread across a perimeter of around 72 kilometers. More than 400 firefighters and emergency personnel, supported by 34 aircraft, have been working to contain the blaze.

Weather Conditions Continue to Challenge Firefighters in Castellón

While Tuesday brought cautious optimism, weather conditions overnight proved less favorable than expected. Humidity levels failed to reach the anticipated values, while temperatures remained unusually high throughout the night, limiting firefighters’ ability to strengthen containment lines.

Despite the lifting of restrictions in Vall de Uxó, authorities are maintaining lockdown measures in the municipalities of Bechí and Onda. Evacuation orders also remain in place for 18 municipalities, with the measures expected to continue until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, subject to the progress of firefighting operations.

The wildfire continues to disrupt the region, with seven regional roads remaining closed as emergency services work to bring the fire under control.

Authorities have urged residents to follow official instructions and avoid affected areas while firefighting operations continue.