“Despite four days of efforts, we could not contain the fires, which have endangered many parishes and populations, dividing the municipality into two parts, complicating our efforts,” stated Carlos Santos at 8:00 pm.
From the Sátão side, also in the Viseu district, “the fire entered Sernancelhe and has now reached Moimenta da Beira,” a neighboring municipality, also clarified Santos.
“Another fire, originating from Trancoso [district of Guarda], has passed through Sernancelhe, where it continues to burn and has moved towards the municipality of Penedono,” within the Viseu district, the mayor further reported.
Carlos Santos acknowledged requesting additional resources from the national command, both ground and aerial, understanding that “it is not only Sernancelhe that is burning,” but collaboration is needed to minimize the substantial damages.
“The damages are already substantial, amounting to millions of euros. Besides agriculture and industry, there are also residences involved, though I have no confirmation regarding primary residences. The affected are likely secondary homes. This needs confirmation,” he recognized.
Three firefighters were injured today in the Sernancelhe municipality, but they received care and “everything has been proceeding well.”
At 4:00 pm, the municipal emergency and civil protection plan was activated, the mayor added, establishing an “emergency shelter space” at the Expo Salão in the town center.
“We have doctors, nurses, psychologists, and an open health center. We are also distributing meals, such as soups and water, to those who need it. Some people sought refuge and have since returned home,” he explained.
The municipality is currently “facing significant communication difficulties, particularly with one of the mobile networks. Other arising issues are being promptly resolved.”
Carlos Santos praised the “tireless support and cooperation of the population in assistance, food distribution, and collection of supplies.”
The fire alarm was raised at 1:03 am on Wednesday in Vila Boa, Ferreira de Aves, in Sátão municipality, Viseu district, and later reached the municipalities of Sernancelhe, Viseu district, and Aguiar da Beira, Guarda district.
As of 9:15 pm, 647 personnel backed by 210 vehicles were combating the fire, according to the official page of the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC).
