Almost 1,600 firefighters have been deployed to combat fires in 20 different areas in Portugal on Monday, as the country faces high temperatures and strong winds. Forest fires have engulfed homes and disrupted traffic on motorways in the Aveiro district following several blazes over the weekend. The Portuguese government has requested assistance from the European Commission’s Civil Protection Mechanism, which can provide additional firefighters, water bombers, helicopters, and use satellite imagery to track fires on the ground.
In Albergaria-a-Velha, located on Portugal’s west coast, several houses caught fire after a blaze started in the neighbouring municipality of Sever do Vouga. The mayor of Albergaria-a-Velha, António Loureiro, reported that one neighbourhood has been evacuated and more are expected to follow. Four people have been injured, and authorities have blocked traffic on three major motorways, including part of the main highway connecting Lisbon and Porto. The municipality has urged the population to stay safe, cancelled school classes on Monday, and all of mainland Portugal is on alert until Tuesday due to the risk of fires in Sever do Vouga and Oliveira de Azeméis.
Over 500 firefighters are battling the largest blaze near Oliveira de Azemeis, south of Porto, as reported by local media on Sunday. Tragically, a firefighter from the São Mamede Infesta fire brigade died after experiencing a cardiopulmonary arrest while fighting the fire in Oliveira de Azeméis. The situation remains precarious as several fires are still active in the area. The urgency of the situation prompted the decision to activate the Civil Protection Mechanism to seek assistance and resources from the European Commission to combat the wildfires.
The European Commission’s Civil Protection Mechanism can offer crucial support in the form of additional personnel, equipment, and satellite imagery to monitor the fires on the ground. This assistance is vital in alleviating the burden on local firefighters as they battle multiple blazes across Portugal. The wildfires have caused significant damage, including homes being engulfed in flames and disruptions to transportation routes, forcing authorities to evacuate residents and close off major roads. The deployment of additional resources from the EU can help in containing the fires and preventing further devastation in the affected areas.
The devastating impact of the wildfires in Portugal highlights the importance of international cooperation in responding to natural disasters. By activating the Civil Protection Mechanism and seeking assistance from the European Commission, the Portuguese government is demonstrating the need for solidarity and support in times of crisis. The loss of life and destruction caused by the fires serve as a stark reminder of the urgency in addressing climate change and implementing measures to mitigate the risks of wildfires. As firefighters continue to battle the blazes in challenging conditions, the support from the EU can make a significant difference in containing the fires and protecting communities from further harm.
The ongoing wildfires in Portugal underscore the grave consequences of extreme weather conditions and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat wildfires. As the country faces the impact of high temperatures and strong winds, the deployment of additional firefighters and resources is crucial in containing the blazes and preventing further devastation. The activation of the Civil Protection Mechanism and assistance from the European Commission are essential in providing support to local authorities and firefighters in their efforts to control the fires and protect lives and property. Collaborative action and international solidarity are key in addressing the challenges posed by wildfires and ensuring a coordinated response to natural disasters.
