At Ideas Peregrinas we are receiving many queries about the state of the fires in Portugal, which is why we have decided to share this information with you.
Thanks to the incredible work of thousands of forest firefighters and recent rains, the spate of fires that has affected central and northern Portugal is practically under control. Although there are some active outbreaks, most of the fires are extinguished or under control. According to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS), there are currently very few active fires in Portugal.
The smoke was especially noticeable on the Portuguese Way, even reaching Santiago de Compostela.
This series of fires began around September 10 and reached its most critical point between September 15 and 17, with 107 simultaneous fires that mobilized more than 4,000 firefighters. The heat affected the north of the Iberian Peninsula and western France, but the rains helped to disperse it. The Portuguese authorities have declared September 20 as a day of national mourning in honor of the victims and a state of calamity has also been declared in the most affected municipalities.
Now, after these episodes, the Aitor storm arrives, the first of the season, which will leave us with wind, tides and intense rain. As these days approach, the fierce heat changes to lower temperatures and water with the tranquility of letting go of this terrible news that makes us reflect on the importance of taking care of our mountains.
