Lisbon [Portugal], August 11 (ANI): Portugal is grappling with three major wildfires in its mountainous north, prompting evacuations and posing a serious challenge for firefighters as the country endures an intensifying wildfire season, EuroNews reported.
One of the most dangerous blazes erupted in the municipality of Trancoso, threatening homes and forcing residents from at least four nearby villages to flee. Fueled by soaring temperatures and strong winds, the fire has injured at least 17 people, including six firefighters, according to local media.
Portugal has deployed significant reinforcements, sending more than 650 firefighters, 226 vehicles, and six helicopters to tackle the fire in the village of Freches in Trancoso district. The most concerning hotspots are in the villages of Palhais, Reboleiro, Aldeia Nova, and Aldeia Velha.
Nearly 400 firefighters were also sent to battle another blaze in the village of Sobral de São Miguel in the municipality of Covilhã, which ignited on Sunday afternoon. A source from the Beiras and Serra da Estrela Subregional Command told local media that the situation is “evolving favourably” and some areas are already in the aftermath stage, although three active fronts remain. Covilhã’s mayor, Vitor Pereira, expressed hope on Sunday night that the fire could be brought under control by Monday morning.
In the villages of Tavora and Pereiro, 86 firefighters have been deployed to combat a third wildfire.
Portugal has been on high alert for heat risks since July, with most of the country under heightened fire danger. As of Monday, 12 districts remain under an orange warning due to extreme heat. The National Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) reported that, by mid-July, wildfires had scorched 10,768 hectares of land — three times more than in the same period last year.
Authorities warn that since 2017, wildfires in Portugal have grown more aggressive, increasing the threat to rural communities and straining firefighting resources. (ANI)
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