Madeira Calls for National Aid As Fires Escalate

Challenging Wildfire Engulfs Madeira

The fire that ignited on the morning of August 14th in Serra de Água, Madeira, leaves a thick dark cloud over parts of the island and has further intensified, prompting a new and immediate response from regional and national authorities. Regional Secretary of Health, Pedro Ramos, described the situation as challenging, citing the ongoing hot, dry, and windy weather as exacerbating factors. Initially, local officials believed they could manage without outside help, but the worsening conditions led to a formal request for assistance from the central government.

Regional Government Faces Criticism Over Delayed Response

The decision to not immediately seek national aid has sparked public criticism, which Pedro Ramos addressed during a press conference held at the Regional Civil Protection Service. Ramos assured the public that there has been continuous communication with the Secretary of State responsible for overseeing the situation. He also announced that 80 additional personnel would arrive by midnight to reinforce the firefighting efforts, with the possible deployment of 15 to 20 firefighters from the Azores being considered.

Firefighters Battle Multiple Active Fronts

On the ground, 108 firefighters from Madeira, alongside 15 forest police, 4 GNR officers, and 11 PSP agents, are actively engaged in combating the fire. Despite their efforts, active fronts continue to burn in Encumeada (Serra de Água), Curral das Freiras, and Jardim da Serra. The regional forces, drawn from Madeira's pool of 750 firefighters, are working around the clock to contain the spread.

National Support Arrives As Situation Worsens

The decision to accept external assistance came as the wildfire situation became increasingly dire. A contingent of 80 personnel from the Special Joint Force, coordinated by the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), is set to arrive in Madeira this evening. This force includes members from the GNR's Emergency Protection and Relief Unit, the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), the National Institute for Medical Emergency (INEM), and volunteer firefighters from the Alentejo region. The team will be transported via a military flight from Figo Maduro Air Base, underscoring the seriousness of the ongoing wildfire emergency.

Sources:
Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Diário de Notícias da Madeira