Fight in Vila Real evolves favorably

The fight against the fire raging in the Serra do Alvão, in Vila Real, has progressed favorably, with an active front still remaining in an area of steep slopes and lack of access.

According to the National Civil Protection Emergency Authority (ANEPC), six aerial resources are already on the ground to help fight the fire that has been raging for 11 days.

"We have the difficulty of fighting in mountainous terrain, at altitude, with difficult access and steep slopes, and therefore, air resources here could be a beneficial aid," highlighted José Requeijo, second sub-regional commander of the Douro.

According to the official, the cooling “that comes from the discharges of the aerial resources allows the combat resources to make a faster progress”.

"We've been experiencing a more favorable scenario. Yesterday, the reactivation in the late afternoon caused us some concern because it was a very intense reactivation, spreading very quickly, and it extended the fire line to the villages of Cravelas, Outeiro, and Testeira. Our concern was to protect the populations, fortunately without any damage to either the inhabitants or the housing structures. We had the protection capacity," the commander emphasized.

When asked about the complaints of the mayor of Vila Real, Alexandre Favaios, who asked for more resources to fight the fire, which is consuming the municipality at a "low heat", José Requeijo said he understood the mayor's feelings.

"It's natural; you're seeing your territory being consumed, and no one can remain calm and at peace in a situation like this. The fact is that we've actually had this occurrence for many days, but we're also experiencing a period and a metrological state in terms of temperature, climate—all of these conditions that have combined to create the ideal recipe for this situation. Therefore, the fight has been effective, the resources are available, and we've had the capacity," he said.