Portugal: Alert issued as hundreds of firefighters battle blaze in Castelo Branco district July 26

Event

The Portuguese government issued a 'situational alert' on Sunday, July 26, as a large wildfire in the Castelo Branco district continues to grow. Around 850 firefighters from around the country have been deployed in efforts to contain the fire's growth, which is expected to continue as temperatures in the district are forecast to reach 38C (100.4F) on Monday. A precautionary evacuation has been underway since Saturday for a number of people in nearby affected municipalities. Portugal's Internal Affairs Minister Eduardo Cabrita stated that it could take firefighters until Tuesday or Wednesday to bring the wildfire under control.

An emergency response presence and localized transportation disruptions, namely road closures, should be anticipated in the affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in the vicinity of the fire are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.