Portugal has entered the 'Bravo Phase' of its wildfire season, with nearly 12,000 personnel and 37 aircraft deployed to combat rural fires. This reinforcement includes the first use of two Air Force Black Hawk helicopters in the national firefighting effort. Officials noted that the area burned in the first few months of 2026 is already double that of the same period last year.
Wildfire season begins with reinforced emergency resources
Thursday, 14 May 2026AI summary

3 sources
- Demotivated firefighters, doubts over Air Force helicopters and over 40,000 hectares left uncleared: 'Bravo Phase' of wildfire season beginsexpresso.pt ·
- Firefighting resources reinforced with nearly 12,000 personnel and 37 aircraft starting this Fridaycnnportugal.iol.pt ·
- Firefighting resources reinforced today with nearly 12,000 personnel and 37 aircraftSIC Notícias ·





