A severe wildfire in Ponte da Barca has become the primary concern for Civil Protection, mobilizing the most resources this Friday. Nearly 60 people were evacuated from their homes late Thursday night due to safety concerns.
Nearly 2,000 firefighters, supported by 600 ground units, are battling active fires across the country, according to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC). Of the four significant fires reported by ANEPC at 6:30 AM this Friday, three remain active, including those in Ponte da Barca, Penafiel, and Arouca.
The Ponte da Barca fire, in the Viana do Castelo district, is now the most alarming, with over 600 firefighters and 200 ground units deployed. The situation worsened overnight, described as "extremely complex" by Civil Protection, with firefighters even being transported by helicopter to inaccessible areas.
The fire crossed a municipal road due to its "unpredictability", descending uncontrollably towards Paradela. Approximately 60 residents from two villages (Sobredo and Paradela) were evacuated as flames approached their homes.
In Arouca, Aveiro district, efforts are concentrated on one front, with over 400 operational personnel and 150 ground units still engaged. Penafiel saw a calmer night after a tense afternoon, with firefighters preventing potential disasters near Canelas village.
Residents in Arouca and Cinfães have endured a week of anxiety, fearing flare-ups. Many have spent sleepless nights, expressing frustration over the annual destruction. "We do what we can," shared one resident, while another recounted significant losses, including homes, warehouses, and livestock.
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