Portugal battles major wildfires as heat and winds intensify risk

A firefighter works to extinguish a fire. 18.09.2024   -  
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AP Photo - Bruno Fonseca

More than 1,700 firefighters have been deployed to tackle a dozen major blazes. The most critical situation was in Arouca, where 500 personnel and 175 land units were mobilised.

In Ponte da Barca, a fire active since Saturday continued to spread near residential areas, prompting evacuations.

Five firefighters were injured in a road accident, and at least six others sustained minor injuries during operations.

Authorities remain on high alert, warning that persistent heat may worsen conditions, with the entire country facing a maximum or very high fire risk.

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