Aragón battles fourth wildfire of summer in Castillonroy

Aragón is facing a relentless fire season, with the latest wildfire erupting in Castillonroy, Litera region, marking the community's fourth blaze this summer. This new fire ignites in nearly the same area as a late June incident that scorched over 4,000 hectares in Tamarite.

Officials attribute the Castillonroy fire to high temperatures and dry thunderstorms. While the blaze is evolving favorably, it rapidly consumed 400 hectares, half of which is forest mass, within just 12 hours. The severity prompted authorities to issue an ES-Alert message to the 800 residents of Albelda, advising them to shelter in place, though this confinement order was lifted Thursday morning. The operational level for Civil Protection remains at Level 2, with the UME (Military Emergencies Unit) and national and regional firefighters actively engaged.

Over 200 individuals, including ground and air brigades, are battling the flames, supported by seven fire engines, five helicopters, and the UME. Local farmers have also contributed by creating firebreaks. The fire has disrupted power and communication in Castillonroy, with efforts underway to restore services. Adding to the concern, a heatwave is expected to persist in Aragón, with temperatures forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius next week, coupled with southern winds and low humidity, increasing the risk of further fire spread.