Wildfires in Madrid and Ávila show signs of improvement, although a new heatwave could reignite hotspots. More than 56,500 people have been evacuated so far.
The wildfires affecting the communities of Madrid and Ávila have experienced a favourable evolution in recent hours, but the arrival of a heatwave poses new challenges for their control. Although no significant reproductions have been reported in the Sierra Oeste of Madrid during the night of Tuesday, the weather conditions expected in the coming days could further complicate the extinguishing of the fire. Temperatures will reach up to 38 degrees, with low humidity and winds that could exceed 40 kilometres per hour. These factors increase the risk of hotspots being reactivated.
The large fire, which began in Villa del Prado, San Martín de Valdeiglesias and Almorox, has affected approximately 34,000 hectares and has led to the evacuation or confinement of more than 56,500 people. Although many residents have been able to return to their homes, towns like Robledo de Chavela and Valdemaqueda remain under evacuation.
Operationally, 24 reception points have been set up in 21 municipalities to assist around 3,000 evacuees. Additionally, more than 2,000 health interventions have been carried out since the start of the fire, with a significant deployment from SUMMA 112.
Despite positive progress on some fronts, such as the safe return to their homes for tens of thousands of affected individuals, concerns about the spread of the fire persist. In Ávila, the fire originating in Burgohondo has ravaged nearly 55,000 hectares, keeping twelve towns under preventive evacuation.
Although Toledo has managed to stabilise its sector of the fire and all its residents have returned home, authorities warn that vigilance must not be relaxed. The situation remains fluid; although no new significant reproductions have been reported so far, teams continue to work hard to consolidate defensive lines and refresh critical areas.
As this environmental crisis progresses, it is crucial to follow the recommendations issued by health and emergency services: avoid unnecessary travel to areas affected by smoke or fire; keep doors and windows closed; and use FFP2 masks if it is necessary to go outside.
As efforts continue to control these devastating fires, it is vital to stay alert to official updates on the state of the fire and follow the relevant guidelines to ensure personal safety.
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