Fires in the Terres de l'Ebre increase by 67%: maximum danger this summer

Fires have surged by 67% in the Terres de l'Ebre between January and May of this year, a leap that sets off all alarms.

Despite a rainy winter and record water accumulation, the territory faces a summer with abnormally high temperatures and many factors that favor fire, according to the head of Emergencies of the Ebre.

The increase in fires and the main causes

Figures that do not encourage optimism

Between January 1 and May 31, 179 forest fires have been recorded in the Terres de l'Ebre, 77 more than in the same period last year. This represents an increase of 67.28%, a figure that forecasts a summer of high risk.

Climatic and environmental factors at play

Although the winter was one of the rainiest in the last 121 years, April broke records but for heat. The high and persistent temperatures, combined with a large amount of dry fuel and wind, create the perfect conditions for fire to spread easily in the area.

The risk for residents and the territory

Most affected areas and the real danger

The Terres de l'Ebre, with some of the highest fire risk levels in the country, face particularly complex situations. The precedent of last year’s major Paüls fire is a vivid memory for the local population.

Impact on daily life and safety

Residents live with the anxiety of possible evacuations and the destruction of the natural heritage that forms part of their identity. Emergency services are already warning that this summer’s forest campaign will be especially complicated.

Reactions and measures planned by the Firefighters

Official statements and alerts

Ricard Expósito, head of the Ebre Emergency region, has emphasized the complexity of the coming season. He anticipates that the high risk and extreme conditions will cause serious episodes, similar to those recently experienced in Paüls.

Preparation and recommendations for citizens

The Firefighters insist on the need to maintain maximum caution, avoid risky behaviors, and stay attentive to official alerts. Prevention is key to preventing the fire from spreading and to protect both nature and people.

The territory is ready to face a summer of accumulated tension. And the question is clear: how much will the patience of this land hold out with so much flame at its edge?

Source of the article: Anna Ferràs | ACN