Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub Editor: Michael Leidig, Agency: Central European News

This is the moment a huge forest blaze hits the Spanish region of Valencia and destroys over 140 hectares of land while around 30 people had to be evacuated from their homes.

The forest blaze, the first ever registered in the Spanish region of Valencia, started near the locality of Monovar in the province of Alicante.

Throughout Friday, firefighting helicopters have been dropping water on the affected region after the blaze was reported on Thursday evening.

Local newspaper El Mundo said that 13 homes were evacuated as a precaution, affecting around 30 residents.

The regional government’s justice department head Gabriela Bravo said the blaze is being contained after nine firefighting brigades worked through the night to restrict its spread.

During Friday morning, four helicopters, two hydroplanes, six fire brigades, and two environmental agents all coordinated to battle the blaze.

The footage shows flames and thick smoke spreading across the landscape as firefighters and helicopters try to extinguish the fire.

Gabriela Bravo visited the affected area with Alicante Council president Carlos Mazon who said that 16 air vehicles were being used despite the high winds and difficult terrain.

The blaze reportedly reached the nearby area of La Romana and was spreading towards Els Alforins.

It is believed the fire was accidentally started by someone burning stubble and one suspect is reportedly under arrest.

The firefighting operation continues.