The Municipality of Celorico de Basto has reported via social media that the fire-stricken area is “of very difficult access and populated with invasive plants.” They stated that “the very high temperatures, combined with low humidity, have made firefighting efforts on the ground very difficult.”
A source from the Tâmega and Sousa sub-regional emergency operations command informed at around 18:45 that the fire “has been active since yesterday [Saturday].”
According to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection, the area currently has 265 operatives, 80 ground vehicles, and three aerial resources deployed.
The fire began in Lourido, in the parish of Arnoia.
