Over 100 wildfires have overwhelmed firefighters in northern Portugal, as they struggle to contain the blazes that have raged since the weekend. The fires, which have claimed seven lives, mark one of the most severe outbreaks in recent years.
On Tuesday evening, Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro declared a state of calamity in the worst-affected regions, granting the government the ability to mobilise additional resources. He urged law enforcement to intensify efforts to identify those responsible for starting the fires, while promising assistance for those displaced or who have lost their homes.
“These difficult hours are far from over,” Montenegro said in a televised address. “We must continue to give our all and seek support from our allies to strengthen the protection of our people and their property.”
The European Copernicus satellite system reported that, as of Tuesday night, over 15,000 hectares (37,000 acres) had been scorched, with fire fronts stretching across 13 kilometres (8 miles). The fires threaten an area home to 210,000 residents.
Portugal : The country battles over 100 wildfires amid state of calamity
