Fire Risk Soars Across Portugal: Authorities Issue Warnings

As temperatures climb, authorities in Portugal are taking precautions against wildfires. Restrictions are in place to prevent ignitions across several municipalities. This action is in response to elevated fire risks and concerns about safety in vulnerable areas.

Restrictions and Prohibitions

The Ministry of Agriculture and Sea has issued prohibitions on equipment that could spark fires. This encompasses motorcycles, cutters, and other ignition-causing machinery. The legislation applies, specifically, to these types of equipment.

Although most municipalities in Alentejo are not currently subject to specific legal prohibitions, the Ministry cautions against any ignitions in agricultural areas. The government is recommending against utilizing agricultural and forestry machinery, including reapers and gadheiras, particularly during the daytime.

Preventive Measures

The National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority is requesting that everyone adopt preventive measures. This call aims to decrease the danger of fire. It will help safeguard people, property, and the environment.

Areas at Risk

Thirty-six municipalities in the Centro region and the Algarve are presently experiencing the highest risk of fire. This evaluation is based on data from the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA). The districts impacted are Guarda, Viseu, Coimbra, Castelo Branco, Santarém, Portalegre, and Faro.

The IPMA has also designated many municipalities across almost every district on the mainland as being at “very high” or “high” risk of fire. Consequently, around thirty municipalities along the country’s coast are facing a moderate or reduced risk of fire.

The European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) shows that forest fires in the EU have already burned an area equivalent to more than twice the size of Luxembourg this year (EFFIS 2024).

Staying Informed

The public is encouraged to stay aware of the latest developments and warnings. Subscribe to the new 24Notícia newsletter for further insights.