The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning to holidaymakers planning trips to Portugal following a series of devastating wildfires that have claimed seven lives. More than 100 wildfires have been reported in northern Portugal, placing a significant strain on thousands of firefighters battling the blazes. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has declared a “state of calamity” for the worst-affected regions, enabling authorities to deploy additional resources to combat the fires.
As the situation in Portugal remains critical, the Foreign Office has advised travellers to stay informed about developments and adhere to guidance from the Civil Protection Authority. Forest fires have prompted restrictions on access to rural areas, with potential road closures due to smoke and ash. The fast-evolving circumstances underscore the need for vigilance and caution among those in affected regions.
Prime Minister Montenegro has emphasised the importance of ongoing efforts to contain the fires and support those affected, while urging cooperation with international partners. The extreme weather conditions fuelling the wildfires in Portugal have coincided with flooding in central Europe, leading the European Union to warn of the impact of climate breakdown. Solidarity from fellow EU members such as Spain, France, Italy, and Greece in providing resources underscores the collective response to the crisis.
In response to the fires, Portuguese authorities have intensified efforts to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for starting the blazes, whether through arson or negligence. Actions include arrests of suspected arsonists and prohibitions on certain activities that could pose fire risks. The scale of the wildfires has led to tragic losses, including fatalities among firefighters and civilians, as well as significant property damage.
While the district of Aveiro and surrounding areas have been particularly hard hit by the fires, the widespread impact is evident in charred landscapes, damaged homes, and heroic efforts by residents to combat the flames. The resilience and resolve of firefighting teams and communities facing this crisis reflect the collective determination to overcome the challenges posed by the wildfires. Portugal’s history of grappling with devastating fires, such as those in 2017, underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness in addressing such natural disasters.