3 days ago
‘Uncontrollable' wildfires kill mayor in Portugal
A former mayor has been killed in 'uncontrollable' wildfires in Portugal as firefighters continue to fight huge blazes and searing temperatures scorch much of southern Europe.
Nearly 4,000 firefighters have been deployed on several fire fronts in Portugal, with the government extending a state of alert until Sunday.
The government in Lisbon made a formal request for assistance from the EU's civil protection mechanism, a firefighting force that can be called upon by countries in need
The wildfires in Portugal claimed the life of Carlos Dâmaso, a former mayor of the town of Vila Franca do Deão. He died while helping to fight a blaze, officials said. He had been reported missing, and his body was found on Friday.
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Portugal's president, offered his 'heartfelt condolences'.
Authorities warned the fires were out of control because of a lack of resources, with villages encircled by flames and firefighters hampered by strong winds.
In Spain, Pedro Sanchez, the prime minister, said the country was at 'extreme risk' of new wildfires, particularly in the north and west. Firefighters were battling 14 major blazes across the country, where seven people have died as a result of the fires.
A recent heat wave brought temperatures exceeding 40C (104F) and is expected to last all weekend.
In the northern region of Galicia, several fires merged and forced the closure of roads. Rail services between Galicia and Madrid would remain suspended 'until further notice', transport officials said.
Police arrested two men on suspicion of starting fires in Castille and León.
Wildfires that have raged across Spain have so far this year burned 610 square miles – an area roughly as big as London.
In Portugal, Spain and Italy, Friday was the Feast of the Assumption, a major Catholic holiday in which people flock to the beach and hold family gatherings.
In the past week there have also been devastating fires in France, Bulgaria, Albania and Montenegro.
In Greece, a wildfire burned out of control for a fourth day on the island of Chios, prompting the evacuation of more villages. Two water-dropping planes and two helicopters were operating in the north of the Aegean island, a popular tourist destination.
Firefighters were given some respite with a lull in the high winds that had been spreading the flames.
A firefighter was injured near the city of Patras after falling into a ravine while battling a blaze. He was rescued by colleagues and taken to hospital with injuries to his back and legs.
