Rural Portugal is scorched by massive wildfires, with one fatality and several injured firefighters and civilians. The government has appealed to the European Union for assistance.
Wildfires in Portugal
Portuguese authorities reported on Friday evening that 65 rural fires had been reported by 5 p.m., with 10 considered the most concerning. Roughly 3,000 firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze. A 43‑year‑old former mayor of Vila Franca do Deão, who was actively involved in the firefighting effort, was confirmed dead. By 5 p.m. on Friday, six firefighters were transported to hospital, one in critical condition, and two local residents of the affected areas also received medical treatment.
Incoming Assistance
Several days earlier Morocco dispatched two Canadair firefighting aircraft to Portugal following the breakdown of equipment previously maintained by Portuguese services. On Friday, the Portuguese government announced that the country had activated the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, requesting the deployment of four Canadair aircraft. It has been confirmed that Sweden will send two additional aircraft on Sunday afternoon, commencing operations on Monday. “European solidarity knows no borders,” stated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on X.
Extended State of Alert
On Saturday morning, the National Office for Emergency Situations and Population Protection extended the state of alert until Sunday at 23:59 due to persistently high temperatures and low relative humidity. Restrictions were imposed, including prohibitions on entering, moving within, or remaining in forested areas and rural trails, as well as the use of pyrotechnic materials.
