Ponta do Sol Braces for Potential Fire Spread as Winds Intensify
Residents of Ponta do Sol are anxiously monitoring the progress of the wildfire that is rapidly advancing towards the mountainous areas of the municipality. The fire, which started in the neighboring Serra de Água, has already moved past Fajã das Éguas with flames now threatening to reach Lombo do Mouro, a location perilously close to Ponta do Sol. As reported, the strong winds in the mountains could potentially again accelerate the fire’s spread, heightening concerns among local authorities.
Local Authorities Mobilize to Protect Ponta do Sol
Célia Pessegueiro, the mayor of Ponta do Sol, confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored by the municipality’s Civil Protection Service. Surveillance teams have been deployed, particularly in the Bica da Cana area, as they assess the risk and consider precautionary measures. Among the steps being considered is the relocation of livestock from high-altitude grazing areas, such as Lombada, Pomar de D. João, and Quinta. The mayor also warned that an evacuation order for residents and tourists in the affected areas could be issued if the situation worsens.
Fires Erupt in Boaventura's Mountainous Terrain
In São Vicente, the wildfire has already breached the mountain range, spreading to the highlands of Boaventura. Firefighters, led by Artur Fernandes of the São Vicente and Porto Moniz Volunteer Firefighters, have been battling to prevent the flames from descending into the valley of São Vicente. Despite efforts to contain the fire near Boca da Encumeada, the situation remains critical, with fires now raging in the inaccessible terrain of Lombo do Urzal. Local authorities, including members of the Boaventura Parish Council and the Forest Police, are keeping a close watch on the situation as it unfolds.
Curral das Freiras Faces Devastation as Fires Persist
In the Curral das Freiras, the wildfires have caused significant damage, particularly in the areas of Colmeal and the town center near the cemetery. Manuel Salustino, the president of the local parish council, reported a challenging night of firefighting, with many areas scorched by the advancing flames. While conditions have calmed slightly by morning, thanks in part to helicopter water drops, the destruction of the landscape has left residents in shock. The road to Curral das Freiras remains closed to all but residents, as efforts continue to control the fire and assess the damage.
Fire Approaches The Paul da Serra Wind Farm
Strong winds are exacerbating a wildfire in Calheta, raising concerns that it may spread to the Paul da Serra area. Although the fire has not yet reached Paul da Serra, Calheta's mayor, Carlos Teles, recalls past fires and fears the flames could advance due to high winds and temperatures. He urges residents, especially the elderly, to stay alert and conserve water. Helicopters are currently conducting water drops near the wind farm.
Albuquerque Speaks Out In Favor Of More Aerial Units
Regional President Miguel Albuquerque, visiting Curral das Freiras, suggested that Madeira should have 2 or 3 aerial units available for emergencies like the current wildfires. While he emphasized the need for negotiation with the national government, he supported the earlier position of José Manuel Rodrigues, President of the Regional Assembly, who also advocated for the deployment of two aerial units for regional civil protection services. Furthermore, the regional government requested imminent reinforcements from the Azores to combat the current wildfires. This request comes on top of the 76 personnel who already arrived from the mainland last night.
Sourcs:
Jornal da Madeira
Jornal da Madeira
Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Diário de Notícias da Madeira
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