This Monday morning has surprised La Plana with a hazy atmosphere and a noticeable smell of fire, a result of adverse meteorological conditions. The wind has stopped, causing the smoke from the forest fire, now in its third day, to descend over the municipalities.
According to Avamet, air quality has dropped drastically. Up to 200 AQI points were recorded in Benicàssim early in the morning, and around 89 points by ten o'clock, a figure considered "extremely bad".
The density of the dark fog, laden with suspended particles, is greater the closer one is to the fire's perimeter. In Vall d'Uixó, a resident reported having to return from walking the dog "because the eyes and throat sting". In Nules, some citizens are opting to wear masks for the same reason.
Wind dynamics have dictated the fire's phases. While Sunday's Levante wind facilitated the work of aerial resources, this morning, with the wind calming, the smoke has concentrated. Avamet indicates that "it was predictable", exacerbated by the large amount of material burned late Sunday.
This new scenario, with fewer visible smoke columns, may create a false sense of control. However, experts warn that the reduction in oxygen and increase in CO2 and particles "reduce the combustion's strength". The forecast is for the Levante wind with a southern component to reignite the fire.
Meanwhile, firefighting services have an opportunity to gain ground. Meteorology plays a key role, and the forecast of the wind stopping justified maintaining evacuations and confinements. "Particles in wildfire smoke are heavier, making prolonged exposure dangerous," warn Avamet.
