The GNR alerted today to a significant worsening of rural fire danger in the coming days, with very high or maximum levels expected in many locations in mainland Portugal. This situation is due to forecast temperatures, which will exceed 35 degrees Celsius, creating meteorological conditions favorable to the occurrence and spread of rural fires.
The National Republican Guard stressed the need to double precautions and adopt responsible behaviors, especially in forest and agricultural territories, avoiding all practices likely to cause fires. The institution recalled that it is prohibited by law to smoke, make fires or bonfires, carry out controlled burns, or use fire for cooking food in forest and agricultural spaces.
Since the beginning of the year until September 6, the GNR recorded 7,034 rural fires and proceeded with the detention of 172 suspects. According to the data provided, 52.5% of rural fires originate from negligent human behavior.
Approximately 66% of detentions were related to the carrying out of burnings and controlled burns, while the use of agricultural machinery constituted the second largest group, responsible for 16% of detentions.
