Portugal fires finally extinguished after seven days

Forest fires burning through southern Portugal have finally been extinguished, with no loss of life reported

Areas ravaged by the forest fire in the Monchique area in southern Portugal (Rex)

Raging fires in Portugal’s southern region have finally been extinguished.

Temperatures fell overnight in the popular Algarve region where the fires have wreaked havoc, but concern remained that strong winds could reignite the blaze.

“The fire has been dominated,” said Patricia Gaspar, commander of the Portuguese operation. “At this moment there is no significant risk that the fire will spread.”

Over 45 people have been injured, but there have been no fatalities as a result of the fires and tourists have remained unharmed.

More than 1,450 firefighters fought the flames that prompted the evacuation of more than 2,000 people in the surrounding areas.

A statement released by the Algarve Regional Tourism Authority confirmed that the region is safe to visit.

“The priority has been the safety of the population and the operatives involved in the combat, with no tourists registered as injured so far.

“The hotel establishments have been in permanent contact with the civil protection authorities and with Algarve Regional Tourism Authority, and are monitoring the development of the situation, so as to guarantee the peace and safety of their guests.

“We would also like to remind people that only a small part of the Algarve has been affected by the discomfort caused by the fire in the Monchique area, and we can confidently say that there is no cause for concern for those who choose the Algarve as a holiday destination.”

The wildfires began a week ago in Monchique in the far south-west of the country and spread to Silves and Portimão on the south coast.

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) confirmed that the fire is now under control, but warned: ”While the weather remains dry, there is always a risk of forest fires.”

Emergency officials will remain in the affected area to monitor the situation, reports Reuters.