Strong winds fanned forest fires on the Canary Island of La Palma, and firefighters were forced to retreat as flames raged out of control near two towns.

Strong winds were fanning fierce forest fires for a second day on the Canary Island of La Palma while a fresh outbreak has been detected on nearby La Gomera island, the Spanish government said today.

A group of scientists and nature lovers exploring tunnels in the Canary Islands became trapped underground and at least six of them died after apparently inhaling toxic gases, officials said today.

Tropical Storm Delta unleashed torrential rain and strong winds on the Canary Islands today, knocking out power, disrupting phone communications and stranding hundreds of people at the islands’ main airports.