“We have no sensitive or critical points; we have managed to contain the perimeter with the company’s machinery, ensuring the fire does not spread further,” explained José Viana, the deputy commander of Vila Nova de Gaia’s fire department.
In an update around 10:20 PM, the commander emphasized that the crew on the ground still has several hours of work ahead to carry out mop-up operations.
The efforts have been hindered due to “the type of fuel and the size of the fire-affected area.”
An employee of the company sustained minor injuries, while a firefighter was attended to, though hospital treatment was not necessary, he added.
Earlier, José Viana mentioned that residents near the scrapyard were advised to keep their windows closed due to the heavy smoke being emitted.
The fire alert was raised at 2:54 PM, involving the company Sucateira Constantino Fernandes Oliveira & Filhos, SA, located in Pedroso, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto district.
According to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection’s website, at 10:30 PM, there were 113 personnel and 44 vehicles on site.
