"Lamenting the devastating news of Carlos Dâmaso's passing"
Portugal has been in a state of alert due to the risk of wildfires since August 2nd, with the ongoing heatwave leading to high to extreme fire danger levels across the country. The crisis has resulted in severe wildfires primarily in northern districts such as Guarda, Castel Branco, Coimbra, Viseu, Braganca, and others.
According to reports, nearly 10,000 km² have been devastated this season, more than four times the long-term average for the season. There have been casualties, evacuations, and significant firefighting efforts with around 1,800 firefighters deployed across affected areas.
To combat the crisis, the Portuguese government has strengthened the operational structure to fight forest fires, issuing a nationwide state of alert to enhance readiness and operational coordination. Deployment of a large firefighting force, activation of advanced monitoring systems, and evacuations of residents in high-risk districts are among the measures implemented.
António José Seguro, a former socialist secretary-general, has visited burned areas in Celorico de Basto, in the district of Braga, to express condolences for the loss and suffering experienced by the affected people and business owners. He also emphasized the importance of prevention in dealing with fires.
Seguro met with the civil protection authority and reiterated that the country cannot afford to repeat this summer's fires. He praised the work done by firefighters, civil protection officials, and local authorities in defending the country but stated that the country needs to have a serious conversation about how to prevent fires.
In a recent development, the Minister of Internal Administration announced that the state of alert will be extended until Sunday due to the 22 consecutive days of intense heat showing no signs of abating. Seguro has also visited burned areas both on Thursday and today.
The crisis has taken a personal toll as well, with the former mayor of Vila Franca de Deão, Carlos Dâmaso, passing away. Seguro expressed his condolences for Dâmaso's death.
As the situation remains critical, continued vigilance and resource mobilization are necessary to overcome the tragedy of wildfires in Portugal.
- The Portuguese government has taken severe measures in response to the wildfire crisis, implementing policy-and-legislation to strengthen the operational structure against forest fires and extending the state of alert.
- In the realm of politics, António José Seguro, a former socialist secretary-general, has emphasized the necessity of prevention in dealing with the ongoing wildfire crisis, urging for a serious conversation about fire prevention strategies.
