Portugal in disaster mode: forest fires claim first victims!

Portugal in disaster mode: forest fires claim first victims!

What a dramatic August in Europe! Portugal and Spain are currently affected by devastating forest fires, which are increasing the hardship for the people in these regions immeasurably. Due to the intense fires, Portugal has requested support from EU partners under the Civil Protection Mechanism. Two firefighting planes are expected from Sweden on Sunday, which will hopefully be able to quickly help ease the situation. Around 3,500 firefighters are doing their utmost to fight ten major fires that are causing great concern for the population Radio Lippe reported.

The situation continues to escalate. Tragically, there was the first fatality on Friday: a volunteer died in the community of Guarda, which only increases the desperation and anger of those affected. The renewed fires and the resulting destruction reveal blatant deficiencies in state provision. In the first eight months of the year, 139,000 hectares of vegetation have already been destroyed in Portugal, with 64,000 hectares lost in the last two days alone, according to horror news from the country.

The situation in Spain

But it's not just Portugal that is struggling with the flames. Spain is also experiencing a catastrophic force of nature these summer months. Around 157,000 hectares have burned since the beginning of the year, around half of which were lost in August. On Saturday, 19 forest fires raged in northwestern Spain and were classified as highly dangerous for settlements. In this context, there have been reports of the current heat wave with temperatures up to 43 degrees, which has lasted almost two weeks. The villages, like that of Palacios de Jamuz in the province of León, are in flames.

To counter the threat of the flames, neighboring countries have already launched relief measures. France has sent two firefighting planes to Madrid and two more planes are expected from Italy. This Europe-wide support is essential in these critical times.

Reasons for the increase in fires

The more frequent heat waves are not believed to be the sole cause of the fires. The doubling of forest and bushland areas in Spain over the last 50 years could also play a role. These forests and bushes are being used less and less due to rural exodus, and combustible material has accumulated. It is a difficult situation that will likely keep governments in these countries busy in the coming years.

In the midst of these catastrophes, the public's understanding is needed. As author Zara Winters says, the right mindset and clear planning are crucial - not only at work, but also in times of crisis. People need to listen to the advice and experiences to find a way out together Quotes of the day summarizes.

All of these developments are an urgent wake-up call. More needs to be done for disaster prevention. Europe should work together not only in the good times, but also in crisis situations like this - because together we are stronger.