The National Republican Guard (GNR) reported earlier today at 7:15 AM, concerning road closures, that the National Road 108 (EN108) was closed to traffic in both directions in Melres, Gondomar municipality, Porto district, due to a fire.
At that time, this was the only major road affected by the fires, according to the GNR.
More than five hours later, the security force stated that, “following the occurrence of rural fires, there are no longer any road traffic restrictions on major roads.”
In a statement, the GNR affirmed that the protection of people and property amidst rural fires remains a priority, emphasized through preventive actions and increased patrol efforts in forest areas.
By 1 PM, over 1,400 personnel and approximately 500 transport units, including 16 aerial means, were combating fires in Ponte da Barca (Viana do Castelo district), Penafiel (Porto), Arouca (Aveiro), Cinfães (Viseu), and Castelo Branco, regarded as the most significant by the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC).
Nearly all municipalities in Bragança, Vila Real, Guarda, Viseu, Coimbra, Castelo Branco, and Faro face maximum risk of rural fire today, according to data from the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).
In this context, the GNR reiterated that burning activities are a primary cause of fires in Portugal and are prohibited “whenever there is a ‘very high’ or ‘maximum’ rural fire danger level, and are subject to authorization or prior communication at other times.”
“To prevent accidents, follow safety rules, always have company, and carry a mobile phone,” advised the security force.
