Andalusia reduces fires, but the burned area reaches alarming levels.

Wildfires in Andalusia have shown a clear decrease in the number of incidents this year, recording 20% less than the average of the last decade. However, the burned area has reached 5,500 hectares, a figure that contrasts sharply with the 1,200 hectares affected in 2023, a year that was considered exceptionally good in terms of fire prevention and control. This disparity reveals the complexity of the situation and the need for a deeper analysis of the dynamics at play. The president of the Andalusian government, Juanma Moreno, provided this information during his visit to areas impacted by the wildfire that occurred in July 2022 in Mijas, Málaga. Despite the reduction in the number of fires, the fact that the burned area has returned to alarming levels highlights the importance of prevention campaigns and investment in resources to combat these incidents. Although 372 interventions have been carried out to date, 128 fewer than the previous year, it is clear that the situation remains critical. Moreno emphasized that Andalusia has one of the most robust firefighting systems in the country, with a 15% increase in the number of fire engines, totaling 101. In addition, there are 44 aircraft and a team of 2,700 Infoca professionals who tirelessly dedicate themselves to the protection of Andalusian forests. This extensive deployment of resources underscores the seriousness with which the autonomous community addresses the challenge of wildfires. The president also referred to the recovery efforts for land affected by the previous year's fire, which devastated nearly 2,000 hectares in the municipalities of Mijas, Alhaurín de la Torre, and Alhaurín el Grande. Thanks to extraordinary efforts in forest regeneration, carried out with a budget of two million euros, these areas are now ready for reforestation. Such initiatives are essential not only for restoring the ecosystem but also for preventing future fires by improving forest health. Moreno explained that prevention efforts must include structural works such as containment dikes to mitigate the effects of torrential rains, cleaning of forest waste, and land regeneration. This comprehensive strategy aims not only to mitigate the immediate impact of fires but also to foster a more resilient environment in the long term. At the same time, he called for caution and responsibility from citizens to avoid behaviors that could ignite fires. In another development, a wildfire was reported in Almuñécar, affecting about 590 hectares since last Tuesday. This fire was controlled thanks to the quick and decisive action of Infoca, which mobilized up to 170 ground personnel and 16 aerial resources in its battle against the flames. The work of these professionals was crucial in preventing the fire from spreading to areas of great ecological value, such as the Natural Park of the Sierras de Almijara, Tejeda, and Alhama. The rapid response of Infoca in this case highlights the importance of having a well-trained and equipped team ready to act in emergencies. Despite the achievements in extinguishing fires, the community must continue to raise awareness of the risks and adopt responsible habits to protect the environment. Prevention remains the best strategy to combat a problem that, although it has decreased in number, continues to pose a latent threat in the region. This year, despite the worrying figures, the experience and accumulated resources have allowed Andalusia to face wildfires more efficiently. However, it is crucial not to let down our guard and to continue working together to strengthen prevention and recovery strategies. Collaboration between institutions, professionals, and citizens will be key to ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for Andalusian forests. As the fire season progresses, it is essential to maintain a proactive approach to fire management and the conservation of natural heritage. The lessons learned from previous years should serve as a foundation for improving practices and ensuring that Andalusia continues to be an example in the fight against wildfires. Nature, in its fragility, requires everyone's commitment, and only through joint efforts can a balance be achieved between human development and environmental preservation.