Summary:
Fire originated from a vehicle on A33, spreading to nearby brush.
Over 400 firefighters are actively combating the blaze.
Strong winds complicate firefighting efforts and increase fire spread.
No casualties reported, but five vehicles have burned.
Public advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Overview of the Incident
A fire broke out on Wednesday in a vehicle on the A33 near Vale de Tanques, Amora, Seixal, and quickly spread to surrounding brush, reaching the Sesimbra municipality. A thick cloud of smoke has been observed covering parts of the South Bank of the Tagus, visible from Lisbon.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
Currently, more than 400 firefighters are engaged in combating the blaze, supported by 162 ground vehicles as of 10:20 PM. As night fell and visibility decreased, the two aerial units that were assisting had to suspend operations. The fire continues to progress with two fronts moving towards EN377, between Fernão Ferro (Seixal) and Alfarim (Sesimbra), but there are no reported casualties or damage to homes.
Fire Origin and Response
The first alert was received at 1:04 PM, just over ten minutes after the fire began. According to Sérgio Moura, spokesperson for the emergency services, there are currently no injuries or damaged properties, although five civilian vehicles have burned. The strong winds are complicating firefighting efforts, causing the fire to spread more rapidly.
Public Safety Measures
As a precaution, various resources are positioned near the NATO depot and a fuel supply station along EN378 to address any potential emergencies. Residents are urged to stay indoors and refrain from unnecessary travel to avoid endangering themselves and obstructing emergency operations. There are notifications that circulation on EN377 and EN378 is becoming increasingly difficult due to smoke, with the possibility of road closures if necessary.
Traffic Updates
The GNR has confirmed that the fire originated from a vehicle on the A33, prompting road closures to prevent public access to the area. Traffic on the A33 has resumed normally, except for the two blocked accesses to the Belverde area.
Local Support
Paulo Silva, the mayor of Seixal, reported that the flames have reached Herdade da Apostiça in Sesimbra, where a construction company is providing mechanical support in the firefighting efforts. The National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection reported two active fronts, with ongoing challenges due to wind conditions.
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