Wildfires Threaten Villages in Vila Real and Trancoso - Emergency Efforts Intensify

Three major wildfires in northern Portugal are currently the most concerning for authorities, mobilizing approximately 1400 operatives and 460 vehicles as of Sunday evening. The fires are located in Sirarelhos (Vila Real), Frexes and Torres (Trancoso, Guarda), and Pereira (Covilhã, Castelo Branco).

Vila Real: Flames Approach Relva Village

The fire that reignited Saturday night in Alvão Mountain, Vila Real, is now dangerously close to Relva village. Elderly residents have been evacuated as a precaution. The fire's front is threatening Relva, Lordelo, and Borbela, with localized confinements in place.

Miguel Fonseca, sub-regional commander of the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC), emphasized the priority is protecting homes. By 8 PM, evacuees were being sheltered at the local parish council.

Trancoso: Four Active Fronts

In Trancoso, four villages—Rio de Mel, Rio de Moinhos, Venda do Cepo, and Celintrão—are in the fire's path. The blaze, reported at 4:21 PM on Saturday, has four active fronts and has already burned over 3700 hectares.

Covilhã: Firefighters Battle Blaze

Another fire in Covilhã is being fought by 422 firefighters with 131 vehicles.

Casualties and Weather Warnings

Five minor injuries were reported Sunday—four firefighters and one civilian. Portugal remains on high alert due to extreme weather, with 108 fire incidents recorded by 5 PM.

Mário Silvestre, ANEPC’s national commander, noted a 95% success rate in firefighting efforts Saturday but warned of challenges due to strong winds and high temperatures.

Access to forested areas is prohibited, and all fire-related activities are suspended under the current alert.