Portugal continues to battle devastating wildfires that have ravaged central and northern regions, claiming the lives of three firefighters on Tuesday.
According to Portuguese authorities, these latest casualties bring the total death toll to seven since the fires intensified on Saturday.
Over 50 active wildfires are burning across mainland Portugal, with nearly 5,300 firefighters deployed to contain the blazes.
In response to the escalating situation, the Portuguese government has called for assistance from the European Union.
Firefighting teams are facing severe challenges as multiple highways have been closed, and train services have been suspended along two northern railway lines due to the advancing flames.
André Fernandes, head of Portugal's Civil Protection Authority, confirmed that the three firefighters, all from the Vila Nova de Oliveirinha fire brigade, tragically died while combating a wildfire in Nelas, a town located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Lisbon.
On Monday, Portugal formally requested help from the European Commission, leading neighboring countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece to send water-dropping planes to assist in the firefighting efforts.
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