Forest fires in Portugal are yet again a severel
threat that is getting ready to burn more than 1% of the national territory,
the highest rate in the EU.
Aggravated by climate change, droughts, strong
winds and rural abandonment these fires devastate thousands of hectares
resulting in human tragedies, loss of biodiversity, and high economic
costs.
Climate Change, extreme heat waves and prolonged
droughts create ideal conditions for the risk of wildfires, as does the
expansion of highly flammable plants such as eucalyptus, along with rural
abandonment.
Most of the fires are of human origin, whether due
to negligence or arson. Strong winds and steep terrain often make firefighting
difficult.
The year 2025 recorded one of the worst fire
seasons, with 43% of the total burned area in the EU concentrated in Portugal
and Spain.
The loss of human lives and the destruction of
homes and infrastructure are recurring consequences.
Protected Areas: National parks, such as Serra
da Estrela and Gerês, are frequently affected, threatening the habitats of
protected plant and animal species.
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