Fires in Portugal

Wildfires in central and northern Portugal have resulted in at least three deaths and numerous injuries, with over 5,000 firefighters deployed to combat the blazes. The most severe fires are concentrated in the Aveiro district, where a firefighter died from a sudden illness during operations, and two civilians were killed—one found in a forest area and another succumbing to a heart attack as flames approached. Authorities have requested additional international support through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, leading to the deployment of firefighting planes from several countries. Conditions remain dangerous due to high temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) and strong winds, which have fueled the rapid spread of the fires. As of this update, there are still 128 active wildfires, prompting widespread evacuations and road closures across affected regions. The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant as the risk of further wildfires persists through the week.