A Mezquita, Spain - September 18, 2024

In a dramatic turn of events, the wildfire that erupted in the afternoon at Chaguazoso, within the municipality of A Mezquita, has been brought under control after devouring nearly 40 hectares of land. The blaze, which threatened to escalate into a larger crisis, was tackled head-on by a massive firefighting operation, showcasing the resilience of local and regional response teams.

According to the latest updates from the Galician Ministry of Rural Affairs, the fire, which started with alarming speed, was contained through the heroic efforts of four agents, ten brigades, four motor pumps, two bulldozers, two technicians, alongside seven helicopters and six aircraft. This combined force was pivotal in preventing the fire from spreading beyond the scorched 40 hectares.

Simultaneously, another fire front was stabilized in the nearby municipality of A Gudina, in the parish of Pentes. This fire, which reignited after initially being under control, affected an estimated 280 hectares. The response here was equally massive, with 26 agents, 53 brigades, 27 motor pumps, six bulldozers, four technicians, 11 helicopters, and 10 aircraft deployed. The proximity to the Portuguese border also necessitated international cooperation, with Portuguese firefighting units contributing to the containment efforts.

The fires, while now controlled or stabilized, have left a mark on the landscape and the community. The swift and coordinated response by the authorities prevented what could have been a catastrophic outcome, especially given the region's vulnerability to wildfires during this period.