During the so-called ‘charlie’ period, which began on 1 July, over 9,708 firefighters, 2,235 teams and 47 aircraft were used.
According to Portugal’s National Institute for Nature and Forest Conservation (ICNF), 10,334 forest fires were recorded until 31 August, 2,760 fewer than in the same period of 2015, although the area destroyed was larger.
These figures do not include forest fires that occurred in the second week of August in Madeira, which killed three people and drove hundreds of people from their homes, particularly in the island’s main city, Funchal.
According to a statement from the PJ Police, the force has so far this year identified and detained 80 people for starting fires in forests.