Traffic resumes on IP4 in Vila Real's fire-hit area
In the heart of Portugal, the Vila Real fire, which started on the night of July 26 in Serra do Alvão near Sirarelhos, continues to pose a challenge for firefighters. The fire has spread to nearby areas including Gontães, São Miguel da Pena, and Vila Cova, where it reignited near a house on Sunday afternoon.
As of August 5, 2025, the fire is being fought by 332 firefighters and 111 vehicles, with aerial firefighting resources expected to reinforce efforts. The Civil Protection had initially expected to declare the fire under control later on August 4, but the latest updates suggest that the fire is still burning.
The main route IP4, which crosses the Vila Real region, reopened to traffic at 19:15. The information about the reopening was provided by the GNR. The route was previously closed due to heavy smoke causing a lack of visibility, and the closure affected traffic in both directions. The reopening occurred between the exits of Campeã and Arrabães.
However, the fire has approached and reignited near populated areas, suggesting local disruptions that likely include transport or road-use restrictions. The exact status of IP4 near the fire zones remains unconfirmed.
In the northern area close to Vila Real, Mondim de Basto, a major fire remains active. Firefighting operations are included in the broader northern region effort involving over 800 firefighters. Details indicate exhaustion among responders and calls for further reinforcements, reflecting the difficult conditions faced there. The National Road 304 remains closed between Alto do Velão and Ermelo in Mondim de Basto due to the fire.
Portugal is currently under a state of wildfire alert extended until August 13, 2025, due to ongoing heatwave risks that heighten fire danger nationwide, with particular severity in northern districts including Vila Real and Mondim de Basto.
In response to the ongoing fire, the Municipal Leader of Vila Real has requested reinforcement of resources for the fire that has been burning for 2 days. As of now, a Latvian special forces team with 16 members is assisting in the firefighting efforts.
This compiled information reflects the state of firefighting efforts, the heightened risk environment, and partial operational details as of early August 2025. The situation remains dynamic, and updates will be provided as they become available.
What is the current weather like in the areas affected by the Vila Real fire? The ongoing firefighting operations in Vila Real are being carried out under a wildfire alert, which suggests that the weather conditions might be hot and dry, contributing to the heightened fire danger.
