High-Intensity Wildfire in Paüls, Tarragona, Forces Confinement of Four Municipalities.

Wildfire in Paüls, Tarragona, Forces Lockdown of Four Municipalities

On July 7, 2025, at 12:28 a.m., a high-intensity wildfire broke out in Paüls, Tarragona, prompting the Generalitat de Catalunya to lock down four municipalities: Paüls, Xerta, Alfara de Carles, and Aldover. The blaze, fueled by strong Mistral winds, has burned approximately 40 hectares in the Canal del Grau ravine, with secondary fires complicating containment efforts. Civil Protection has urged residents to “close doors and windows and stay indoors” to avoid smoke inhalation.

Intense Firefighting Efforts

The Bombers de la Generalitat described the fire as “high intensity,” noting its rapid spread through challenging terrain. “The situation is bad due to the strong Mistral wind blowing in the area,” said Enric Adell, mayor of Paüls, in an interview with El Periódico. Firefighters are prioritizing the left flank to prevent the fire from reaching the TV-3541 road, while also working to contain the right flank, which threatens the Els Ports Natural Park. The right flank’s location in a hard-to-access area poses significant challenges. The response includes 18 ground units, seven air units (four helicopters and three light aircraft), and 64 personnel working to control the blaze.

Official Response and Public Concern

Catalonia’s President, Salvador Illa, addressed the crisis during a speech on the regional economy, calling for vigilance. “We are experiencing many fires during this heat wave. I ask the civilian population to follow the recommendations issued by security and emergency services,” Illa said. Protecció Civil has activated emergency protocols, and a command post is being set up to coordinate efforts. Posts on X, including from @diaridtarragona, reflect public concern, urging residents to comply with lockdown measures and sharing updates on the fire’s progression.

Ongoing Efforts

The combination of strong winds and rugged terrain has made the Paüls fire particularly dangerous. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze and protect residents, with fears it could spread further if not controlled soon. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and updates are expected as conditions evolve.

Note: This is an ongoing situation, and further details may emerge as firefighting efforts progress.