Gátova evacuees find refuge in Bétera due to wildfire

Bétera's sports center hosts 37 Gátova residents and their pets, anxiously awaiting news of the fire's progress.

Generic image of a Mediterranean town square at dusk.
IA

Generic image of a Mediterranean town square at dusk.

Bétera's sports center has become a temporary refuge for 37 residents of Gátova, evacuated due to the wildfire threatening the town.

The Bétera sports center, located in El Camp de Túria, has opened its doors to host residents from Gátova who had to leave their homes because of the wildfire. In total, 37 people, accompanied by ten pets, are spending these days in the neighboring municipality, anxiously following the flames' progress.
The evacuation occurred rapidly on Friday afternoon, leaving residents little time to gather their belongings. From Bétera, the evacuees are keeping a close eye on the wind, hoping that weather conditions do not bring the fire closer to Gátova's town center. The situation breeds uncertainty and waiting.
The affected individuals are requesting official information and warning about the spread of rumors. They state they only trust the guidance from the Gátova Town Hall. Meanwhile, Bétera remains prepared to offer support for as long as necessary. The Red Cross is responsible for care and meeting the basic needs of the evacuees, including minors and individuals with health issues. Additionally, nine residents from Gátova have been transferred to a care home in Carlet.
The Bétera Town Hall has highlighted the municipality's supportive response and citizen involvement in the face of the emergency. The situation of leaving home with only essentials is described as "hard and complicated," a reality that the residents of Gátova had hoped to avoid.