At midnight today, the official page of the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) reported that the fires were engaging 1,614 personnel and 496 land vehicles, highlighting the most significant occurrences in Moimenta da Beira, Trancoso, and Vila Real.
In Moimenta da Beira, 452 firefighters and 142 vehicles are present tonight, with the flames nearing the villages of Toitam, Semitela, and Nacomba.
Firefighters are assisting the populations in the three villages, stated Miguel David, the sub-regional commander of Emergency and Civil Protection for the Viseu Dão Lafões Sub-Regional Command.
The second fire mobilizing more resources tonight is in Trancoso, with 329 personnel and 105 vehicles combating the flames that started this afternoon.
The Sirarelhos fire, which began a week ago and was brought under control, reignited today, with 110 firefighters and 31 vehicles on site.
A source from the Douro sub-regional command assured it is “a small reactivation” occurring only in the shrub area, with no homes at risk.
The presence of more than 100 personnel on site is mainly due to weather conditions, the source explained, adding, “It’s a very large area, and therefore, resources must remain on site.”
Portugal is on alert due to worsening weather forecasts indicating a significant risk of rural fires.
During this period, access, circulation, and presence in forested areas are prohibited under municipal forest fire defense plans, and the performance of burnings and bonfires is banned, with any previously issued authorizations suspended.
The alert situation also prohibits work in forest and rural areas using machinery, as well as the use of fireworks and other pyrotechnics. Authorizations previously issued for these activities are also suspended.
