Portugal is currently battling severe wildfires exacerbated by arid conditions in September. Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro declared the state of calamity, on Tuesday, for the affected areas.
The wildfires have caused significant death and destruction, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country.
Since the weekend, the blazes have continued to rage, with temperatures in some areas exceeding 30°C (86°F). Fires are under investigation on suspicion of criminal origin.
The districts of northern and central Portugal have been worst affected, with the district of Aveiro, namely its municipality of Albergaria-a-Velha, south of Porto, being one of the hardest-hit areas. In Aveiro alone, the blazes have consumed over 10,000 hectares (24,710 acres). The situation could worsen due to the dry conditions and wind gusts of up to 43 mph.
Over 50 fires have spread through these regions, burning over 10 thousand hectares. More than 5,000 firefighters, supported by over 1,500 fire engines, have been deployed to control the numerous fires.
At least seven people, including three firefighters, have lost their lives. Additionally, dozens of individuals have suffered burns, breathing difficulties, and other injuries. Twelve firefighters have been injured, with two in serious condition.
The fires have destroyed numerous houses, forcing an unknown number of residents to evacuate. Images from the affected areas show homes reduced to ashes and smoke blanketing the terrain.
Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, said on Tuesday, that the country will face “some very difficult times over the next few days.”
Authorities have shut down roads and highways, including those between the capital, Lisbon, and Porto, and schools in central Portugal have been closed.
On Tuesday, authorities acknowledged the complex situation and called for additional support. The European Union has responded by sending eight firefighting planes to aid in combating the severe blazes. France, Greece, Italy, Spain, and Morocco have pledged to assist Portugal during this crisis.
To prevent new fires, a three-day warning has been issued, prolonging an alert for fires until Thursday. Measures such as banning the use of heavy machinery in farming have been implemented to avoid sparks.
This year’s fires bring back memories of the devastating 2017 wildfires in Portugal, which claimed over 120 lives and burned more than half a million hectares.
PAJ/Staff/This developing story is being updated.
