MAXIMUM forest fire risk has been declared for today in Cádiz and in three provinces of central Spain.

Exceptionally hot, dry weather has led the ministry of the environment to announce a red alert over the possibility of fires, mainly on the Costa de la Luz.

They also believe there is a high risk of blazes breaking out in Palencia, Zamora and León.

Additionally, the Ourense province in Galicia could see forest fires over the course of today.

At present, emergency services are working on controlling a blaze in Barrios de Luna (León).

The government stresses that people should take extra precautions, including avoiding lighting fires or barbecues and not dropping cigarette butts whilst out walking or driving through high-risk areas.