The Serra Calderona breathes easier after the situation of the severe forest fire that began last Thursday, caused by a lightning strike, has evolved favorably. This improvement has allowed the residents of Gátova, who had to temporarily abandon their homes on Friday due to the flames' proximity to the town, to return home. The resettlement has already begun, with police vehicles ensuring access routes do not become congested.
The fire has been downgraded to level 1, and the operational team has been significantly reduced, now comprising 130 personnel and 10 aerial resources that will continue to cool the area to prevent new outbreaks. The regional secretary for Emergencies, Fernando Lasheras, announced from the Advanced Command Post, located in the Hoyo park in Gátova, that the fire's perimeter was already "perfectly delimited" by eleven in the morning. The de-escalation of the emergency plan will lead to a reduction in personnel, although they will remain to tackle the coming hours with maximum effectiveness.
Residents returning to Gátova must remain confined to their homes, according to a municipal decree. This measure is adopted to prevent any obstruction to firefighting efforts and ensure the safety of the routes, as emergency vehicles are still operating in the area. Furthermore, they are asked not to park private vehicles on public roads. Drinking water cannot be consumed for safety reasons, but bottled water will be provided. The CV-25 road will remain closed to prevent interference with emergency vehicle traffic.
The map of the burnt area has been updated, now affecting 631.82 hectares, a figure that may change. The perimeter extends to 18 kilometers. The fire did not reach any homes, although it did affect some agricultural plots that served as firebreaks. The technical director of the PMA, Antonio Rodrigo, emphasized the "very favorable evolution" and stated that the fire is "perimetrated and stabilized," although still active. It is not expected to be controlled before 24 hours.
Climatic conditions are aiding firefighting efforts, with 70% humidity and wind gusts of 20 to 25 km/h. Aerial operations are focused on reviewing hot spots detected by thermal imaging drones. The operation is maintained for potential re-ignitions, with a high degree of confidence that it will not spread. The possibility of rain today could provide additional relief.
