A severe wildfire in Ponte da Barca is rapidly advancing towards the village of Germil, located within the Peneda-Gerês National Park (PNPG), raising alarms among local authorities and residents.
Wildfire in Ponte da Barca erupted on Saturday night. Photo: Miguel Pereira
Augusto Marinho, the mayor of Ponte da Barca, expressed deep concern over the fire's progression towards Germil, emphasizing the urgent need for aerial support to protect the area's homes and natural heritage. "Within one to two hours, the fire will reach Germil. Aerial means are crucial now," Marinho stated.
The fire, which started on Saturday, has already mobilized 445 firefighters, 147 vehicles, and three aerial units, according to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC). The situation is further complicated by another firefront in Serra Amarela, potentially spreading to Terras de Bouro in the Braga district.
Efforts to combat the blaze are hampered by limited aerial resources, with only two aircraft operating in rotation and awaited Spanish support not yet arrived by mid-morning. The community and emergency services remain on high alert as the fire threatens to engulf more territory and endanger lives.
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