Firefighters lift lockdowns in Girona after stabilizing the fire

Authorities have lifted the confinement measures imposed on eight municipalities affected by the wildfire in the Les Gavarres Natural Park in Girona. The decision comes after firefighters declared the fire stabilized, though concerns remain about potential flare-ups due to high temperatures and wind conditions. Residents of these areas can now exit their homes, while those living within the fire's perimeter must be accompanied by police when leaving. The fire has burned over 2,300 hectares and affected several towns including Calonge i Sant Antoni, Castell d'Aro, Platja d'Aro, s'Agaró, Cruïlles, Monells, Sant Sadurní de l'Heura, Forallac, La Bisbal d'Empordà, Llagostera, and Santa Cristina d'Aro. Approximately 12,000 people were under confinement. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with more than 500 personnel involved, including firefighters, members of the Military Emergency Unit (UME), volunteers from the Forest Defense Group (ADF), and local farmers. Their efforts have resulted in the stabilization of 70% of the fire, but the remaining 30% remains active. The fire has caused ten minor injuries and completely destroyed eight homes, partially damaging another eight, along with some industries and vehicles located near the left flank of the fire. The fire's perimeter spans 40 kilometers, and the right flank presents particular challenges due to its irregular shape and numerous secondary hotspots. Fire chief Joan Rovira noted that this area is in a phase of stabilization but warned that afternoon winds and high temperatures could reignite the flames towards the center of the Les Gavarres natural park, potentially affecting up to 30,000 hectares. To address this risk, four water bombers and seven helicopters will join the firefighting efforts during the day. Rovira emphasized the need for residents to avoid unnecessary travel to the affected areas to ensure emergency services can operate effectively. The situation has allowed for the lifting of restrictions in the eight affected municipalities, although caution remains high. Rovira urged citizens to refrain from engaging in "fire tourism" and to exercise responsibility to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Road closures remain in place for certain routes, including the GI-660 road between La Bisbal d'Empordà and Calonge, and the GIV-6612 road connecting Santa Cristina d'Aro to Calonge. These roads are closed to prevent traffic congestion and to allow emergency services to navigate freely. The fire began near La Bisbal d'Empordà two days ago and has since spread to cover approximately 2,400 hectares. Firefighters worked throughout the night to stabilize the fire’s perimeter, taking advantage of relatively favorable conditions. However, the upcoming day is expected to be challenging due to high temperatures and the potential for renewed activity from the fire's smoke plumes. The primary concern remains the right flank of the fire, which borders the main forested area of the Les Gavarres massif. Efforts have been concentrated here to prevent any sudden outbreaks that might cause the fire to spread further into the forested regions. In addition to the immediate containment efforts, assessments of the damage will take place throughout Sunday. So far, eight homes have been completely destroyed, and another eight have sustained partial damage, along with several industries and vehicles. A specialized team will conduct individual evaluations of the damaged structures, focusing primarily on the head of the fire in the neighborhoods of Les Cabanyes in Calonge and Vall Repòs in Santa Cristina d'Aro. This assessment aims to determine the extent of structural damage and guide future recovery efforts. The suspected perpetrator of the fire was released on bail following his appearance before the court in La Bisbal. He had been detained earlier in the week and is currently under investigation for causing the forest fire. The man works for a company formed by Aquaterra and Rubau, which specializes in road maintenance. Authorities are seeking additional information to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. Local residents, farmers, and forest workers played a crucial role in containing the fire. Their combined efforts, including early detection of smoke, clearing fields to prevent the fire from spreading, and providing water support to firefighters, contributed significantly to the successful containment of the blaze. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of community involvement in managing such emergencies. Firefighters praised the professionalism and dedication shown by all parties involved, emphasizing that the containment of the fire was a collective achievement.