Travel warning issued in Algarve as wildfires engulf

Friday, July 15, 2022

The Portuguese resort of Algarve is under high alert due to wildfires that have reached some of the tourists’ and residents’ houses. The holidaymakers in Algarve were asked to leave their properties and accommodation and evacuate the area.

The rapid flames and thick smoke threatened popular holiday areas including Pinheiros Altos and Quinta do Lago resort. The evacuation was later extended to a wider area and several roads were closed.

The residents and tourists were seen leaving the affected area on bikes and cars as the wildfire approached.

Algarve, located near Faro, in southern Portugal, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and a favourite among the travellers from United Kingdom. Brits love to visit Algarve for its serene beaches and golf resorts.   

There are thousands of firefighters have been deployed across Portugal in the last few days as the heatwave pushed temperatures above 45 degrees. A fire broke out in the city of Faro a couple of days ago and now continues to spread to the Quinta do Lago luxury resort.

The videos shared online showed flames very close to villas, burning palm trees and golf courses.

Portugal is now on red alert for extreme heat conditions. The fires are expected in the country and the Foreign Office warned “mainland Portugal is in a state of contingency until midnight on July 15 due to exceptionally high temperatures and a heightened risk of forest fires”.

Although it is still safe to travel to Portugal, the Foreign Office recommended “remaining vigilant and following the guidance provided by your airline or tour operator if you find you are affected”. The IPMA weather institute said the hot weather is expected to continue in the new few days.

According to the Civil Protection Authority, at least 135 people suffered injuries since wildfires began in Portugal. About 800 people have been evacuated this week. In France, dangerous wildfires have also been reported.

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