Portugal: Major forest fire continues to rage June 19 /update 3

Event

As of Monday, June 19, the following regions remain under maximum fire alerts: Alcoutim, Algarve, Aljezur, Castro Marim, Loulé, Monchique, Sao Bras de Alportel, Silves, and Tavira. Authorities have closed several roads including the Centro IC8, Centro N2, Centro N347, Centro N236, and Centro A13.

A map of the affected areas can be found on the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) website.

Context

While forest fires are common every summer in Portugal, this is likely the most deadly forest fire in the country's history. As of Sunday, June 18, at least 62 people had been killed by the fires that started on June 17 in Pedrógão Grande (Leiria district) at approximately 15:00 (local time), quickly spreading across several fronts in the center of the country. Two army battalions have been deployed to assist the approximately 2000 firefighters working to bring fires under control nationwide. France has sent three fire-fighting planes and Spain has sent two. A The government has declared three days of mourning.

There has been increased risk of wildfires in Portugal as a result of an ongoing heatwave and strong winds.

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to monitor developments to the situation. Authorities have advised residents to keep their radios on and to follow all instructions (e.g. potential evacuation orders).