Portugal: Firefighters Battle Major Wildfires Amid Scorching Heat and High Winds

More than 1,500 firefighters are battling several wildfires across Portugal, with the most severe blazes reported in Arouca, Ponte da Barca, Penamacor, and Mangualde. In Penamacor (Castelo Branco), more than 400 firefighters and five aircraft are working to contain the flames. Strong winds, rugged terrain, and soaring temperatures—reaching up to 40°C—are complicating efforts. Nearly all of mainland Portugal remains under high or maximum fire risk alerts.