Aragon deploys historic firefighting force to combat massive wildfire

A massive wildfire in the Aragon region of Spain has prompted the largest firefighting deployment in the area’s history. The blaze has burned approximately 16,600 hectares and has threatened the historic 1,000-year-old San Juan de la Peña monasteries. More than 1,000 firefighters, including members of the army and specialized units, are working to contain the flames.

To bolster the response, the European Union has activated its Civil Protection Mechanism, with 100 French firefighters and up to 40 aircraft expected to assist. The Generalitat de Catalunya has also increased its support by deploying specialized teams from the Forest Action Group (GRAF) to assist authorities in Huesca.

While regional leader Jorge Azcon expressed optimism regarding the consolidation of the fire perimeter, the situation remains critical due to high temperatures and unpredictable winds. The fire has also necessitated the evacuation of over 1,000 people from surrounding villages. Meanwhile, local activist groups have called for demonstrations to protest what they describe as insufficient structural prevention and management of forest fires in the Pyrenees.