Portugal's Wildfire Crisis: Piódão and Cinque Vilas Fires Rage On as Authorities Battle Blazes

Current Wildfire Situation

As of 8 AM on Friday, August 22, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) reported 27 active wildfires across Portugal. A total of 2,718 personnel and 903 vehicles are deployed to combat the flames. ANEPC highlights four major incidents:

• Piódão, Arganil (Coimbra): 1,623 personnel and 556 ground units. Ongoing.
• Cinque Vilas, Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo (Guarda): 243 personnel and 78 ground units. Ongoing.
• Sabugal and Aldeia de Santo António, Sabugal (Guarda): 196 personnel and 60 ground units. Under resolution.
• Vilar de Perdizes, Montalegre (Vila Real): 183 personnel and 60 ground units. Concluding.

Support for Affected Children

The Institute for Child Support reminds that children exposed directly or indirectly to the fires can seek help. They can call the SOS Child and Youth Line at 116 111 or via WhatsApp (913069404). A team of psychologists is available on weekdays for free support. Clinical psychologist Maria João Cosme emphasizes the importance of clear explanations, security, and active listening for children's emotional well-being during crises.

Impact and Response in Affected Areas

In Covilhã, the active fire has led to an expanded confinement appeal for Bouça, with ongoing advisories for Unhais da Serra, Cortes de Baixo, and Cortes do Meio. Authorities urge residents to stay in safe locations, avoid smoke exposure, and unnecessary travel to not interfere with rescue operations.

In Seia, the fire is contained, with consolidation and mop-up efforts underway. Road circulation is unrestricted, but caution is advised in affected zones. The municipality is distributing 200 bales of straw for ruminant and asinine animals and 2 tons of artificial feed for beekeepers, based on assessments from affected parishes. Those with urgent needs are encouraged to use support lines.

Political and Climate Context

Expert Duarte Caldeira notes that since the tragic 2017 wildfires, electoral programs have included more measures on forest fires under civil protection and climate change risks. However, commitments often remain generic rather than measurable. Researcher Joaquim Sande Silva predicts that with over 200,000 hectares burned this year, wildfires will be a key issue in the upcoming October 12 municipal elections, especially in heavily affected concelhos.