In the most recent update on the situation regarding the fire, carried out by government entities, the President of the Regional Government said that there are three active fire fronts (Serra de Água, Encumeada and Paul da Serra), which forced the evacuation of 160 people, as a precaution and to avoid smoke inhalation.
“There are no victims, no homes were destroyed by fire nor was there any destruction of essential infrastructure,” stressed Miguel Albuquerque.
Regarding those displaced, they are staying temporarily at the Estreito Community Center, the Ribeira Brava Pavilion, the Câmara de Lobos Pavilion and the Crescer Sem Risco Association, in São Vicente. “All of these people have the minimum conditions of comfort and are supported from a medical and social point of view”, he stressed, reinforcing that they will remain “for some time until they can return home in safe conditions”.
The governor also said that the evolution of the flames is “predominantly in Paul da Serra”, and that a fire containment strip is being set up in that area, and also near the Encumeada inn. “The weather forecast is more favourable, a decrease in wind intensity and a possible drop in temperature are expected, but we will continue to act on these fronts, with our operatives duly positioned and intervening in the appropriate and critical areas”, he stressed.
Regarding external support, Miguel Albuquerque explained that the Regional Government is not considering activating the European Civil Protection Mechanism and added that the 15 operatives from the Azores will land at Madeira International Airport at midnight, on a civilian flight. “I would like to thank all the Civil Protection professionals for the excellent work and sense of duty they have demonstrated from the very beginning, as well as the collaboration of the national Government and all the operatives of the Special Intervention Force”, he praised.