17 Oct 2017 | 10:26 AM UTC
Portugal: Country recovering from devastating wildfires /update 1
Largest wildfires to hit the country since 2006; 36 people dead, three days of national mourning declared October 17
Event
Portugal was hit October 15-16 by the largest wave of fires since 2006, leading the country to declare a state of emergency for areas north of the Tajo River. As of Tuesday, October 17, all fires have been extinguished or contained, rainfall having helped firefighting efforts. At least 36 people have been killed, 63 injured, and several remain missing, prompting Prime Minister António Costa to declare three days of national mourning.
Transportation disruptions due to damaged infrastructure and road closures in affected area are possible throughout the day as the situation stabilizes.
Context
2017 has been marked by serious wildfires in Portugal, which have caused some 216,000 hectares of vegetation to be burnt. In mid-June, the country was struck by the deadliest wildfire in its history, which killed 64 people and injured some 250 more.
Advice
Individuals are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.
