Wildfire Rages on Madeira, Evacuations Underway

Firefighters on Madeira are engaged in a fierce battle against a wildfire that has spread across the southern coast, exacerbated by strong winds and high temperatures. The blaze, which ignited in the rural area of Ribeira Brava, has expanded to Camara de Lobos, prompting the evacuation of 160 residents as a precaution. Authorities suspect arson as the cause of the fire, which is currently active on three fronts. Nearly 200 firefighters, supported by additional units from mainland Portugal and the Azores, are struggling against gusty winds reaching up to 62 km/h, complicating aerial firefighting efforts. Madeira's coastline is under an orange alert due to extreme weather conditions, and dozens of flights have been canceled as a result. Local officials and the community are mobilizing resources and support, but there are concerns about the government's coordination in response to the crisis.