UPDATE: The fire has been brought under control and is now in a “resolution stage”. Over 200 firefighters remain at the site to ensure that the fire is completely extinguished and that any flare ups are promptly dealt with.
A new wildfire has broken out in Monchique this afternoon and is being battled by 158 firefighters, aided by 39 vehicles and nine planes and helicopters.
Portugal’s Civil Protection website says the blaze broke out at around 3.24pm in the area of Chilrão, to the west of the town of Monchique.
A large plume of smoke can be seen in the neighbouring borough of Portimão.
Monchique was just recently threatened by the huge wildfire which broke out in Odemira.
Updates to follow.
