A wildfire in the Spanish Canary island of La Palma was active and out of control on Friday (August 5), forcing the evacuation of more than 2,000 people.

The fire has already burnt more than 2,000 hectares and remains blazing out of control with at least two active fronts, local media reported.

On Thursday (August 4), one park ranger died while fighting the fire which is being fanned by high winds and is still to be contained after starting on Wednesday afternoon.

Spanish police said they had arrested a 27-year-old German man who, according to a source from the investigation, has admitted to starting the fire accidentally.

Spanish media reported the fire quickly raged out of control after the man attempted to burn used toilet paper.

The last major fire on the island was in 2009 when 4,000 people were evacuated. The island is a popular tourist destination and the wildfire comes at the height of a record summer holiday season.