EU Sends Firefighting Planes to Madeira Wildfire

The European Commission has dispatched two Canadair firefighting planes from Spain to Madeira to assist Portugal in combating wildfires that have consumed nearly 5,500 hectares since August 14. This support comes under the EU's Civil Protection Mechanism, activated by Portugal due to the escalating fire situation. The Commission is also providing satellite imagery to local authorities through the Copernicus Earth observation program. The firefighting efforts are complicated by challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, but regional officials have stated that the fire has not reached any protected areas, including a UNESCO World Heritage site. The EU remains prepared to mobilize additional resources if necessary, as the situation continues to be monitored closely. The ongoing wildfires highlight the increasing severity of such incidents linked to climate change, which is affecting regions worldwide.