Portugal: Wildfire alerts issued in Algarve

Event

Five areas in the southernmost region of Algarve - Loulé, Tavira, São Brás de Alportel, Alcoutim, and Castro Marim - have been placed on the highest wildfire warning level due to extremely dry conditions, high temperatures, and wind, as of Tuesday, August 8. The rest of the region is on a lower yellow alert. All alerts will remain in effect until at least 21:00 (local time) on Tuesday.

A wildfire erupted in western Algarve, near the town of Lagos, on the afternoon of Monday, August 7, forcing the closure of a highway between 16:30 and 19:00. Two hundred firefighters and three aircrafts have been deployed to contain the flames.

Advice

Individuals are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas affected by the wildfires, to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and to keep abreast of the situation.