Spain: Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires in Asturias and Galicia autonomous communities, as of March 30

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires in Asturias and Galicia autonomous communities as of March 30. Strong winds and high temperatures across northwestern Spain are fanning the fires, and further wildfire growth is possible over the coming hours and days.

The largest fire is burning in Baleira Municipality in Galicia's Lugo Province. The fire began late March 28 near the village of Cubilledo and has grown to around 1,100 hectares (2,718 acres). Authorities have a level two (out of four) emergency, and more than 43 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. At least four villages in the area were evacuated on March 29; however, some residents were able to return late March 29. Smaller fires have been reported in Alfoz, Tabaoda, and Viveiro municipalities in Galicia.

Authorities in Asturias Autonomous Communities have reported more than 100 active forest fires in the region as of March 30. The fires of greatest concern are in Allande, Tineo, Valdes, and Villayon municipalities in western Asturias and Pilona Municipality in eastern Asturias. At least 20 people have been evacuated from Aristebano and Caborno villages in Valdes Municipality. The AS-219 highway between the towns of Luarca and Navelgas is closed due to the fires. More than 500 personnel are involved in firefighting operations across Asturias as of March 30.

The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the need for response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.