Fire in Andújar activates pre-emergency phase in Andalusia due to imminent danger.

Andalusia is once again facing the devastating reality of wildfires, this time at the Encinarejo reservoir, located in the town of Andújar, in the province of Jaén. The fire was reported at noon this Sunday, prompting the Ministry of the Presidency, Interior, Social Dialogue, and Administrative Simplification to activate the pre-emergency phase of the Andalusian Wildfire Emergency Plan (Plan Infoca) at 5:21 PM. This phase is implemented in situations where the danger is imminent, but significant damage has not yet occurred. The fire in Andújar has elicited a swift response from local authorities and emergency services. In an effort to ensure the safety of citizens and facilitate firefighting efforts, a nearby recreational area has been closed. This action aims to prevent public access to the danger zone and allow firefighting teams to carry out their work more effectively. The delegate of the Junta in Jaén, Jesús Estrella, and the director of the provincial operational center (COP) of Infoca, Germán Bartol, have traveled to the site of the incident to supervise operations from the Advanced Command Post. This is a key measure to coordinate the activities of all participating agencies, ensuring that every part of the operation acts in a synchronized and efficient manner. The firefighting efforts have been significant. More than 70 personnel have been deployed in the affected area, supported by three fire engines, a bulldozer, and a Medical Unit (UMIF). Additionally, several aerial resources have been requested, including nine aircraft that are performing water drops to control the flames. The combination of ground and aerial resources is crucial to tackle the magnitude of the fire and minimize its environmental impact. The Emergency Coordination Center of Andalusia (Cecem 112) has received over twenty calls from citizens alerting them to the fire. This rapid citizen response has enabled emergency services to act immediately, informing various security and emergency bodies, including firefighters, the National Police, Civil Protection, and the Emergency Medical Center (CES) 061. The situation in Andújar is an alarming reminder of the dangers that wildfires pose to the community and the environment. As temperatures rise and weather conditions become more severe, the number and severity of these fires are expected to continue increasing in Andalusia and other regions of Spain. Prevention and preparation are essential to mitigate the devastating effects that these phenomena can cause. The Infoca Plan, developed by the Andalusian government, is a crucial tool in the fight against wildfires. Its activation in pre-emergency situations allows authorities to quickly mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to combat the fire before it spreads. Collaboration among different agencies is essential to ensure an effective and timely response. However, the responsibility does not solely fall on authorities and emergency services. Citizens also play a fundamental role in fire prevention. Raising awareness about the importance of caring for the natural environment and following safety guidelines can significantly contribute to reducing the incidence of these disasters. The fire at the Encinarejo reservoir is a tragedy that highlights the fragility of our ecosystem and the urgent need to adopt proactive measures to protect it. As we continue to monitor the evolution of the situation, it is imperative that we all unite in a collective effort to safeguard both our lands and our communities against the threat of wildfires.