Wildfire in Las Peñas de Riglos Burns 16,600 Hectares Amid Difficult Conditions

A significant wildfire raging in Las Peñas de Riglos, Huesca, has consumed an estimated 16,600 hectares, continuing its destructive path. The fire remains active across much of its perimeter, with challenging meteorological conditions, including erratic winds, severely hampering suppression efforts on Saturday.

The primary concern is focused on the fire's right flank, which has shown persistent activity from its tail to its head. Unpredictable wind shifts are complicating firefighting maneuvers, making containment increasingly difficult. The regional firefighting agency, Infoar, is coordinating efforts, with French resources expected to reinforce, rather than replace, the deployed teams.

Authorities have requested additional aerial and ground support from France through the National Forest Fire Mechanism and the Málaga Agreement. A new contingent from the Military Emergencies Unit (UME) and several bulldozers from the Army have also been requested. The fire's progression towards Atarés and Monte Oroel, as well as the Anzánigo and Centenero areas, is a particular worry.

Efforts are underway to consolidate the fire's perimeter towards Puente la Reina, Binacua, and Santa Cilia, while the left flank, extending from the tail to Bailo, is reported to be secured. A key priority remains the defense of Santa Cruz de la Serós and other populated centers. The blaze has forced the evacuation of 1,045 residents from 19 different locations.