Three firefighters died on Tuesday while combating wildfires in central Portugal, raising the death toll to seven since the weekend, as the country grapples with over 50 active blazes amid extreme weather conditions.

Why it matters:

• The widespread fires have devastated central and northern Portugal, destroying homes, disrupting transportation, and prompting international assistance.
• The situation underscores the escalating impact of climate change on extreme weather events.

By the numbers:

• Seven fatalities since Saturday, including three firefighters.
• Over 50 active wildfires across mainland Portugal.
• Approximately 5,300 firefighters deployed.
• Ten thousand hectares burned in the Aveiro district alone, potentially engulfing another 20,000 hectares.
• Temperatures exceeding 86°F (30°C) over the weekend.
• Wind gusts up to 43 mph (70 km/h) complicate firefighting efforts.

The big picture:

• Due to the rainy season, Portugal and neighboring Spain experienced fewer fires earlier this year.
• Both countries remain vulnerable to wildfires fueled by increasingly hot and dry conditions linked to climate change.
• Meteorologists describe high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity as a “cocktail of dangerous conditions.”

What they’re saying:

• André Fernandes, Civil Protection Commander: The situation is “very complex” and “very difficult” in the days ahead.
• Prime Minister Luís Montenegro: Portugal is enduring “difficult days” and has requested assistance from the European Union.
• Meteorologist Jorge Ponte: Monday was “one of the worst days ever” for fire risk in Portugal.

International response:

• The European Union is mobilizing eight firefighting planes through its Civil Protection Mechanism.
• Spain, Italy, Greece, and France are contributing aircraft to support Portugal’s firefighting efforts.
• Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President, praised the rapid response as “EU solidarity at its best.”

Impact on communities:

• Residents in affected areas like Nelas and Aveiro are battling advancing flames, with some using buckets of water to protect their homes.
• Several motorways have been closed, including parts of the main highway between Lisbon and Porto.
• Train services on two northern railroad lines have been suspended.

What’s next:

• Weather conditions may improve by Wednesday afternoon, with possible showers on Thursday.
• Authorities have extended a rural fire danger alert through Thursday.
• The government has issued fire prevention guidelines, urging residents to stay vigilant and report risky behaviors that could start new fires.

Context:

• Portugal significantly increased its fire-prevention funding and doubled its firefighting budget after deadly blazes 2017 claimed 64 lives.
• The current fires highlight the country’s ongoing challenges in managing wildfire risks amid changing climate conditions.

Go deeper:

• Scientists warn that climate change intensifies extreme weather events worldwide, leading to more frequent and severe wildfires.
• The government continues coordinating with local and international agencies to combat the fires and assist affected communities.