More than 150 wildfires recorded in Catalonia since start of summer

More than 150 wildfires have been recorded in Catalonia since the start of summer, the second-highest figure at this point in the year since 2010, according to data from the Rural Agents and the Department of Agriculture.

Almost 3,000 hectares have been burnt between June 1 and July 5, although the figure remains well below the more than 8,000 hectares affected at the same stage last year, when major fires in Segarra and Baix Ebre accounted for much of the damage.

The main focus for firefighters on Wednesday was the fire in Sentmenat, in Vallès Occidental, which remains active after breaking out on Monday.

The fire has affected around 200 hectares, and crews have not yet been able to fully secure the perimeter.

Around 240 emergency personnel, supported by aircraft, were working in the area on Wednesday morning.

Some 300 people remained confined as a precaution, while 35 residents who could not return home had been relocated to nearby accommodation.

Firefighters warned that the operation remained difficult due to steep terrain, dense vegetation and areas of the perimeter that had not yet been closed off.

The incident commander said new outbreaks could not be ruled out.

Gavarres

The largest wildfire so far this summer, in the Gavarres massif near La Bisbal d’Empordà, was brought under control on Tuesday evening after four days.

The fire affected around 2,200 hectares, with firefighters continuing to monitor hot spots overnight using 16 crews.

In Anoia, the fire around La Pobla de Claramunt was stabilised after affecting around 500 hectares.

Residents of the Les Garrigues housing development were able to return home, with local authorities saying safety strips around the homes had been key in limiting damage.

At least one property was destroyed.

The ongoing wildfire situation and heatwave has prompted authorities to tighten fire-prevention measures, with the highest Pla Alfa fire-risk level in force in 214 municipalities across 24 counties.

Civil Protection authorities have suspended roadside verge mowing and banned activities involving fire or pyrotechnics in those areas.