L'incendie de La Vall d'Uixó est toujours " très actif " et fait face à une après-midi " longue et compliquée "

The fire in La Vall d’Uixó continues to burn intensely, with officials warning that the situation remains highly complex and challenging. The blaze, which has been active for four days, is described as “very active,” according to David Vicente, the deputy head of the Fire Department of the Castellón Provincial Council. He emphasized during a press briefing at the Mobile Command Post (PMA) in La Vall d’Uixó that the afternoon ahead is expected to be “long and complicated.” This assessment comes amid ongoing efforts to contain the fire, despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. As of midday, multiple flare-ups have occurred across different fronts, requiring constant intervention from firefighting teams working without interruption. The fire has already scorched more than 8,500 hectares, with officials acknowledging that the challenge is growing. Vicente noted that the fire is “very complex,” and while efforts are being made to stay ahead of its spread, the current situation has shifted toward the fire advancing more rapidly than anticipated. The terrain, characterized by steep slopes and dense vegetation, presents significant obstacles to containment operations. Additionally, changing weather patterns, marked by increased wind speeds and an upcoming heatwave, are further complicating efforts. These factors have led to a cautious approach, with firefighters adapting their strategies to match evolving conditions. Despite these challenges, some progress has been made. The regional government, known as the Generalitat Valenciana, announced earlier this morning that the evacuation order for the neighborhoods of Toledo, Carbonaire, Sant Antoni, and Sant Josep in La Vall d’Uixó has been lifted. This allows approximately 6,000 residents who were displaced to return home. Meanwhile, residents of Vilavella, another affected area, have also been permitted to return to their homes, though they must remain confined due to heavy smoke levels. Vicente expressed relief that the communities have been able to begin the process of recovery, although he stressed that the fire remains a serious threat. Firefighters are currently operating across the entire perimeter of the blaze, focusing particularly on areas such as Alcudia de Veo and Tales, where the fire shows greater continuity and mass forest coverage. These regions require intensified efforts, as they represent key points of concern. The aerial firefighting units continue to play a crucial role, flying continuously without rest. However, early in the day, visibility was severely limited due to thick smoke, which temporarily hindered air support operations. Despite these setbacks, the overall response has remained coordinated and proactive. The fire’s impact extends beyond immediate safety concerns. It has affected parts of the Sierra de Espadán, a protected natural area, raising environmental concerns. The region is part of a larger landscape vulnerable to wildfires, especially during periods of high temperatures and dry conditions. With the arrival of a heatwave, officials warn that the risk of further spread remains elevated. Efforts to control the fire will need to continue through the weekend, with teams preparing for extended operations. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on protecting both human life and property. Authorities have prioritized ensuring that residential areas are shielded from the encroaching flames. Some isolated homes have been successfully safeguarded, preventing direct damage. While the lifting of evacuation orders marks a positive step, the fire’s persistence underscores the need for sustained vigilance. The coming hours will determine whether the current strategy can maintain momentum against the advancing flames.