After wreaking havoc since Wednesday, the forest fire in the Las Hurdes region and Sierra de Gata nature reserve has finally stabilised. This marked the initiation of the Military Emergency Unit (UME)’s withdrawal process.
As announced on UME’s official Twitter profile, their mission has been deemed completed. The unit extended its gratitude towards Extremadura for the received expressions of affection and praised the cooperation with all emergency services. They also shared a video depicting more than 60 vehicles starting their withdrawal.
Continued efforts from Extremadura Fire Fighting Plan
Even after the stabilisation of the fire, 17 units from the Extremadura Fire Fighting Plan (INFOEX), five units of heavy machinery, along with six technicians and six Seprona agents continue to work in the affected area.
Evacuated residents begin their return journey
Moreover, last night marked the start of the return journey for the evacuated residents of Cadalso, Descargamaría and Robledillo de Gata. These residents had taken refuge in the municipal sports centre of Moraleja (Cáceres). Meanwhile, the evacuation status remains in effect for Ovejuela due to the less favourable fire perimeter conditions.
Favourable Weather Conditions Ahead
The weather forecast for Sunday shows promise for the firefighting efforts. Lower temperatures, increased humidity, and reduced wind speeds are anticipated, which will benefit further extinguishing activities.
Estimated destruction covers almost 12,000 acres
Copernicus, the Earth observation instrument of the European space program, estimates that approximately 11,934 hectares have been scorched by the fire. This figure is an estimate and is subject to revision as the fire remains active. This tool is one among many that the fire services use to monitor the progress of fires and plan their action strategies.
