Wildfires Rage in Arouca and Castelo de Paiva: Portugal's Worst Day for Fires This Year

Portugal is facing an unprecedented wildfire crisis, with 256 fires igniting in just two days. Tuesday marked the worst day this year, with 132 fires reported, according to Mário Silvestre, the national commander of Emergency and Civil Protection. The previous day saw 124 fires, highlighting the escalating situation.

At the time of the announcement, 17 active fires were at a heightened state of alert, mobilizing 2,578 personnel, 870 vehicles, and 29 aerial units. The most concerning blaze was spreading towards Arouca and Castelo de Paiva, driven by strong winds. This fire alone required 722 operatives, 246 vehicles, and seven aerial assets to combat.

Another critical situation unfolded in Lindoso, Alto Minho, where a fire initially thought to be under control reignited due to shifting winds, threatening the Serra Amarela area. Meanwhile, fires in Penamacor and Nisa posed significant challenges, though officials hoped for improvement overnight.

In Beira Baixa, the Aranhas fire consumed 2,953 hectares by 6 PM. The shift in wind direction and intensity complicated firefighting efforts, but authorities remained optimistic about gaining control during the night.

Casualties and Causes: By evening, 20 individuals had received medical attention, including 14 firefighters, a GNR officer, two Afocelca members, and three civilians. Authorities pointed to agricultural activities as a major cause of the fires, urging the public to avoid such work during high-risk periods.