Thunderstorm sparks destructive blaze in Arganil, triggered by dry conditions

Multiple GNR patrols were deployed to maintain security across expansive, inhabited areas consisting of isolated homes and deserted villages. Approximately 30 individuals from the blaze zone were compelled to leave behind everything, ultimately seeking refuge in the town of Vide, unhurt by the...

, and ASMedia

2025 September 1 . 7:22 AM

2 min read

Thunderstorm ignites blaze in Arganil, fueled by arid conditions

Thunderstorm sparks destructive blaze in Arganil, triggered by dry conditions

In the heart of Portugal, the municipalities of Arganil and Oliveira do Hospital are currently battling a relentless wildfire that has been spreading since a dry thunderstorm struck the region in the early hours of Wednesday. The fire, which started near Piódão, a remote, well-preserved schist village in the Serra do Açor mountains, has been causing significant concerns due to the area's rugged terrain and forested environment.

The GNR (Portuguese National Republican Guard) has been actively searching for anyone left behind in temporarily evacuated villages and scattered houses. However, the rapid effects of the wind and impenetrable thick smoke are hampering their efforts to control the fire.

At 16:00, the uncontrollable dimension of the fire in the Serra do Açor was evident. To combat the blaze, approximately five hundred operatives, two hundred vehicles, and eight aerial means have been deployed. Despite these efforts, the planes are unable to descend to the valley or approach the columns of pine trees burning on the slopes due to the thick smoke.

In areas where the flames did not make the atmosphere opaque, 5,000 liters of water dropped by 'canadair' (a type of aircraft) have helped control the impetus of the flames. Unfortunately, three inhabitants in the villages of the Serra do Açor could not flee in time and sought refuge in a water tank.

The GNR has relocated the population of about ten villages in the Serra do Açor due to the fire. Thirty-six residents of the fire front were relocated to the village of Vide.

The fire has had several fronts in the municipalities of Arganil and Oliveira do Hospital. As the battle against the flames continues, local official reports or news updates from August 2025 would provide more precise information about the fire's impact on residents and emergency responses in Piódão and other affected areas.

[1] Historical Background of Piódão [2] Local News Updates on the Fire