Portugal is facing one of the most devastating wildfire seasons in recent years, with more than 172,000 hectares burned nationwide. In just four days between August 14 and 17, nearly 96,200 hectares were lost, surpassing the total area scorched in 2023.
The Central region has been the hardest hit, particularly in the districts of Castelo Branco, Fundão, Leiria, Coimbra, and Santarém, where fires have destroyed vast areas of forest and farmland.
The municipalities of Sertã, Proença-a-Nova, Oleiros, and Pedrógão Grande are once again at the center of the crisis, recalling the tragic 2017 wildfires. In the North, fires have spread into Guarda, Viseu, and Vila Real, with flames advancing through the Serra da Estrela mountain range and forcing evacuations. The Alentejo region, especially Portalegre, has also suffered severe losses in cork oak and olive groves.
Additional flare-ups have been reported near Lisbon, including in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and forested zones around Loures and Mafra, where access trails have been closed. In the Algarve, fires in the Monchique hills prompted temporary evacuations but are currently under control.
More than 3,000 firefighters, supported by military units and international reinforcements, continue to battle the blazes. Canadair aircraft from Morocco and firefighting planes provided through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism are assisting Portuguese crews on the ground.
The wildfires have already claimed two lives—a former local official and a firefighter—and left several injured. Authorities warn that strong winds and extreme heat in the coming days could intensify conditions, placing central Portugal in particular at continued high risk.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro expressed solidarity with communities affected by the crisis: “Portugal is once again facing the force of nature at its most destructive. We will not abandon the families, farmers, and firefighters who are on the frontlines. Every resource of the state is being mobilized to protect lives and livelihoods.”
The Minister of Internal Administration, Margarida Blasco, reinforced the importance of prevention: “We are asking the public to strictly respect restrictions on forest access and outdoor activities. In these conditions, a single spark can endanger entire villages. The cooperation of citizens is critical.”
National Civil Protection Authority commander André Fernandes highlighted the scale of the firefighting effort: “Over 3,000 firefighters, supported by aircraft, heavy machinery, and the Armed Forces, are engaged in operations across the country. International support has been essential, and we are grateful for the assistance from our European partners and Morocco.”
The government has extended the nationwide state of alert until August 19, implementing strict measures to reduce risks, including bans on forest access, agricultural burns, and fireworks.
PAJ/Staff
