A significant fire has erupted near Gijón, leading to the evacuation of residents due to the rapid spread of flames. The fire”s origin is traced back to Monte Areo, where firefighters had previously responded to a blaze just a week ago. This new incident has already impacted a local workshop, with the situation deteriorating quickly.
Residents have reported a strong smell of smoke permeating the area, as strong winds on Wednesday have carried the odor into the city. These gusty conditions are complicating firefighting efforts, as the flames continue to advance swiftly.
Firefighters from Gijón have been joined by units from the Emergency Service of the Principality of Asturias (SEPA), which has dispatched resources from La Morgal and a regional chief to the scene. Although the current risk to the population is deemed low, the proximity to densely populated areas and the nearby “Y” highway necessitates a robust firefighting response.
The winds in the area have been recorded at speeds exceeding 50 kilometers per hour, exacerbating the firefighting challenges. Emergency crews have been deployed from Monteana to various parts of the Serín parish, including local police and civil guards who are assisting in the evacuation efforts.
Approximately 50 residents from nearby rural areas have been evacuated, particularly from homes along Camino del Melendreru in the parish of San Andrés de los Tacones. The local government has activated a crisis management unit at the former local police headquarters on San José Street, establishing a control center for the emergency.
The local police are providing reassurance to the community and assisting evacuated families by transporting them to a municipal sports center in Monteana. Access roads to Monte Areo have been closed to facilitate emergency operations.
All firefighting units from Gijón are currently engaged in battling the blaze, with additional support from regional authorities. Local volunteer groups have also stepped in to assist evacuated families with supplies.
The fire is producing significant smoke, which has already reached Monteana, where evacuated residents are currently located. Local police have delivered mattresses, water, and food supplies to the sports center to help those affected. Additionally, Civil Protection has provided masks to residents to aid breathing amidst the smoke.
In response to the situation, Carmen Moriyón, the mayor of Gijón, has activated the Municipal Emergency Plan at level two, following recommendations from fire prevention services and local police. SEPA has also initiated its emergency forest fire protection plan at level one, indicating a slight risk to non-forest properties and populations.
The regional director of local cooperation and emergencies, Olmo Ron, is also on-site to oversee the response efforts.
