Collserola forest fire stabilised after burning around 10 hectares

The forest fire that broke out on Friday afternoon in Barcelona’s Collserola hills has been stabilised after affecting around 10 hectares, according to the latest information from firefighters.

The Catalan fire service earlier said it was supporting Barcelona firefighters with 10 ground units in the Sant Pere Màrtir area. The alert was received at 3.35pm on Friday.

The Catalan fire service has also provided a water-bombing helicopter and another helicopter to support aerial operations.

Barcelona City Council activated its municipal forest-fire response plan at the alert stage on Friday after the Catalan government placed the Barcelonès area at level 3 of the Pla Alfa wildfire prevention plan, indicating a very high risk of fire.

Barcelona municipal sources said the fire is believed to have started near the Carretera de les Aigües, a popular walking and cycling route.

The mayor of neighbouring Esplugues de Llobregat, Eduard Sanz, said the fire reached the municipality and that local services had been activated.

Sanz urged residents to stay away from the area and follow official instructions.

Esplugues City Council evacuated the Espai Mireia as a precaution and ordered residents of the Can Caralleu neighbourhood to remain indoors.