A column of thick smoke rising from Monte Coronado sent alarm bells ringing across Malaga on Monday evening.
Almost 100 calls flooded the 112 emergency line as residents spotted the blaze from central districts and surrounding neighbourhoods.
The fire broke out at 7.14pm on scrubland near La Palma-Palmilla, according to Infoca, the regional wildfire response service.
Within minutes, firefighting resources were deployed, including a light and heavy helicopter, two groups of forest firefighters and two fire engines.
Although the plume was visible from much of the city and initially caused concern, Infoca teams managed to contain the flames swiftly. By just after 8pm, the fire was declared stabilised.
Authorities have not reported any injuries or damage to nearby homes, though the incident once again highlighted the risks posed by dry scrubland ringing Malaga’s urban sprawl during peak fire season.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.