More than 30 municipalities at extreme risk of rural fire

The Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a warning affecting over 30 municipalities in the districts of Guarda, Castelo Branco, Santarém, Leiria, Portalegre, and Faro, classifying them at extreme risk of rural fire. These municipalities present conditions that favor the outbreak of fires, requiring heightened attention to prevention.

In addition to the municipalities on high alert, the IPMA indicated that the rest of the country faces a fire risk considered very high and high. This classification implies that citizens and local authorities must be aware of safety guidelines related to fire fighting.

The elevated risk of fires is accompanied by forecasts of maximum temperatures ranging from 23 to 32 degrees Celsius. According to information from the IPMA, the expected weather conditions include partly cloudy skies, which may enhance soil dryness and susceptibility to fires.

Other reports, including those from RTP, mention that a total of 20 municipalities in the districts of Viseu, Guarda, Coimbra, Castelo Branco, Santarém, Portalegre, and Faro are also classified as being at extreme risk. This information underscores the widespread danger across different regions of the mainland, which may affect the mobilization of resources for firefighting.

The forecast of high temperatures and fire risk is expected to persist throughout the coming days, with the alert likely to remain in effect until the end of next week, as notified by the IPMA. This continuation of the alert reinforces the need for preventive measures and constant vigilance in the most vulnerable areas.

It is important for the affected communities to stay informed about updates from the IPMA and to follow safety recommendations, avoiding activities that could cause accidental ignitions and collaborating with the authorities to prevent fires.