Following devastating wildfires on the island of Madeira, new fires have ignited in mainland Portugal, particularly affecting the northern district of Aveiro and the city of Porto. As of now, seven fatalities have been reported, and several towns have been evacuated as the fires spread.
Affected Areas
The fires, which began on September 16, have primarily impacted the northern and central regions of Portugal. The Aveiro district has seen significant destruction, with flames reaching Albergaria-a-Velha and leading to the closure of highways connecting Porto and Lisbon. At one point, around 5,300 firefighters were actively combating the blaze.
Porto and Algarve Status
While Porto is close to the affected areas and has experienced some disruptions, the Algarve region in southern Portugal remains safe and unaffected. However, the main highway linking Porto to Lisbon has been closed due to fire-related dangers, and numerous local roads have been shut down.
Causes of the Fires
Despite a relatively wet summer, temperatures recently soared to 30°C (86°F), contributing to the fires’ rapid spread across dry land, aided by strong winds. Authorities have arrested seven individuals in connection with suspected arson, raising concerns about deliberate fire starting amidst natural causes.
Travel Safety
As of now, neither the UK government nor the US Department of State has issued travel warnings against visiting Portugal. However, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice to include information about the ongoing fires. They recommend staying informed about the situation and adhering to guidance from local authorities.
If you have upcoming travel plans in the affected regions, it’s advisable to contact your travel provider to discuss cancellation or postponement options.
Extreme Weather Context
This summer has seen various extreme weather events across Europe, including severe flooding in central Europe from Storm Boris and a recent earthquake in Lisbon measuring 5.3 in magnitude. These events highlight the growing concerns regarding climate-related disasters across the continent.
Conclusion
While the situation in Portugal is serious, the southern regions remain safe for travel. Stay updated and take precautions if traveling to affected areas.
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