Alert for Fire Risk in Castilla y León: Preventive Measures Against Heatwave

The Ministry of Environment, Housing, and Land Planning has issued an alert due to the increased meteorological risk of forest fires in Castilla y León for the upcoming days of July 18, 19, and 20. This measure has been taken in response to the forecasts of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), which has issued a special warning for a heatwave that will affect the region during that period. A significant increase in maximum and minimum temperatures is expected, as well as the presence of winds with gusts exceeding 40 km/h, which will increase atmospheric instability and the dryness of vegetative fuel. The fire danger indices managed by AEMET and the INFOCAL operational unit coincide in that this episode of high temperatures and winds will notably increase the probability of ignition and the capacity for fire spread in the region. In light of this situation, the Ministry has established extraordinary preventive and organizational measures within the INFOCAL operation to address this danger. Among the measures adopted are prohibitions such as lighting fires in the countryside, using barbecues in open areas, or operating machinery that could generate sparks or electrical discharges in forested areas. In addition, authorizations for the use of fireworks have been suspended, and the population is urged to exercise extreme caution in their outdoor activities and in the countryside. Regarding the use of agricultural machinery, it is recommended to suspend work when the temperature exceeds 30 degrees and wind speeds reach 30 km/h. Non-urgent work should be postponed and maximum caution should be maintained, always having firefighting equipment and necessary personnel on hand to control potential fires that may arise. The general population must be aware that any carelessness in these circumstances can trigger a serious forest fire, so it is essential to report any sightings of fire immediately to 112. Collaboration and responsibility of all individuals are crucial to prevent and combat forest fires, which pose a serious threat to the environment and people's safety. Given the severity of the situation expected in the upcoming days in Castilla y León, it is crucial that everyone follows the authorities' instructions and takes necessary precautions to avoid any risky situations. The protection of our forests and the safety of the population must be prioritized during this period of forest fire alert.