Madrid – A severe fire erupted in Yeres, El Bierzo, threatening teh nearby Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Authorities have evacuated approximately 800 residents from Carucedo, Orelán, Las Médulas, Voices, and Montes de Valdueza as the blaze intensifies.
Olegario Ramón, president of the Regional Council of El Bierzo, detailed the challenges posed by strong winds during a Time 25 weekend interview with Almudena Lopesino. he explained that a sudden dry storm on Sunday afternoon forced firefighting crews to withdraw, rendering the 17 air support units ineffective. “Very complicated moments were lived,” Ramón stated.
The fire has already caused meaningful damage, with several homes in Las Médulas destroyed. Ramón described the situation as “an environmental and human tragedy,” noting the anguish felt by residents unsure of the fate of their properties.
Currently, eight active fires are burning in the Bierzo region. Ramón expressed concern that five of these fires may have been intentionally set, exacerbating the situation alongside a heat wave with temperatures nearing 40 degrees Celsius and unpredictable wind shifts. He suggested the possibility of “environmental terrorism.”
“All this has generated a great anguish in the area, where moments of nervousness, extreme concern and fear have been experienced for what may happen,” the regional president added.
Castilla y León to Cover Damage Costs
Ramón assured residents that the junta de Castilla y León will cover the cost of restoring all damaged properties, including both public and private buildings and businesses. He extended his solidarity to those affected, specifically mentioning a woman named Fine who lost her business to the flames, describing her as “tremendously desperate” at the loss of her life’s work.
Evacuees are being accommodated primarily with family, while those without that option are staying at a school in Ponferrada, provided by the City Council. Approximately twenty people are currently sheltered there.
Disclaimer: This article reports on a developing situation. Information is subject to change. This is not financial, legal, or medical advice.
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