Portugal Battles Devastating Wildfires as Greece and EU Pledge Support

Lisbon, Portugal - More than 5,000 firefighters are engaged in a desperate battle against "raging" wildfires tearing through Portugal, fueled by scorching temperatures and dry conditions. Tragically, one firefighter, João Silva, lost his life due to a sudden illness while combating a blaze in Oliveira de Azeméis. At least two other fatalities have been attributed to the fires, according to local media.

The situation remains critical, with authorities issuing the highest possible wildfire risk warning for numerous central and northern regions until Wednesday. The threat is predicted to remain "very high" through Friday. Over 10,000 hectares (37 sq miles) have already been consumed by flames between Porto and Aveiro in the north, leaving a trail of destruction.

Hospitals are struggling to cope with an influx of patients suffering burns, respiratory problems, and other fire-related injuries. Major motorways, including the vital Lisbon-Porto route, have been closed by police.

Prime Minister Louis Montenegro expressed his profound condolences for the fallen firefighter and thanked France, Greece, Italy, and Spain for their swift assistance. The EU, responding to the crisis, is deploying eight firefighting aircraft, with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging other member states to contribute.

While Portugal possesses a fleet of 30 water bombers and has deployed over 1,500 fire engines, the scale of the disaster necessitates international support. France has committed two water bombers, with Spain expected to send two more.

Although Portugal and neighboring Spain have experienced fewer wildfires this year due to a wet spring, the current hot and dry weather creates ideal conditions for blazes. Climate change, with its increasing risk of extreme weather events, exacerbates this vulnerability.

As firefighters continue their courageous efforts, the situation in Portugal stands as a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by wildfires in a warming world.