Catalonia activates the maximum risk level for wildfires due to an extreme heatwave.

The heatwave that has settled in Catalonia brings significant concerns regarding the prevention of forest fires. Starting this Tuesday, the maximum risk level, Level 4 of the Alfa Plan, will be activated in 131 municipalities across 15 counties. This decision responds to the need to safeguard both the natural environment and the safety of citizens in the face of the imminent threat of fires. The activation of Level 4 entails restricting access to five natural spaces: Montsant, Tivissa-Vandellós, Cardó-Boix, Baronia de Rialb, and Ribera Salada, where human presence has been prohibited to minimize risks. The Government of Catalonia has taken additional measures to tackle this critical situation. It has been decided to increase the personnel of operational bodies, including the Firefighters, who have begun to mobilize staff preventively. This is considered vital, as the forecast from the Catalan Meteorological Service indicates that the heatwave will last at least until Wednesday, with temperatures exceeding thresholds for intense heat, particularly in the northeast and the counties of Empordà. Additionally, the activation of the Infocat plan in alert phase by Civil Protection involves restricting recreational activities in natural spaces, such as camping and sports routes, unless they take place in populated areas. This decision aims to prioritize the safety of the population and avoid risky situations in case a forest fire is declared in these ignition-prone areas. The most affected counties include Alt Urgell, Anoia, Baix Camp, Baix Ebre, Conca de Barberà, Garrigues, Noguera, Pallars Jussà, Priorat, Ribera d'Ebre, Segarra, Segrià, Solsonès, Terra Alta, and Urgell. The wide activation of the maximum risk level underscores the seriousness of the situation. In total, 212 municipalities in 25 counties will be under Level 3, which also implies serious restrictions on activities that could cause fires. The community is called to act with responsibility and caution. It is advised to avoid any activity that could pose a risk to the natural environment, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Furthermore, for those municipalities under Levels 3 and 4, it is prohibited to engage in risky activities, light fires in open spaces, and use pyrotechnic materials. These measures are crucial for protecting the natural heritage of the region and preventing fires that could have devastating consequences. The extreme heat forecast also affects sports and educational activities taking place in forest environments. Camps, stays, and sports campuses will need to adapt to the circumstances by conducting their activities indoors or in immediate surroundings, provided they comply with established preventive measures. This not only reflects the seriousness of the risk but also the need for a coordinated response among various entities. The Firefighters of the Generalitat have been preparing for this scenario. The activation of additional personnel in the regions with the highest risk is an essential step to ensure a quick and effective response in case fires arise. This preventive approach will help contain any potential situation before it escalates into a disaster. The danger of forest fires is not a matter to be taken lightly, and the combination of high temperatures, dryness, and wind can create ideal conditions for the spread of fire. The scientific community and local authorities have emphasized the importance of prevention and citizen collaboration to address this threat. It is essential that all citizens become aware of the situation and act responsibly. The collaboration of each individual is crucial to minimize risks and protect both the population and the natural spaces that are the heritage of all. The heatwave may be a challenge, but with due caution and appropriate action, it is possible to face this adversity and preserve our surroundings.