Image of the day
Forest fire in Madeira
Earth Observation | Copernicus
Fires
Location: Madeira, Portugal
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-3 imagery
This image, acquired on 18 August 2024 by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellites, shows a plume of smoke 130 km long rising from the Portuguese island of Madeira as a result of a large forest fire which started on 15 August.
The fire began in the Serra de Água area of Ribeira Brava and quickly spread to Câmara de Lobos, where it continues to pose a significant threat despite containment efforts. The flames have come close to population centres, forcing the evacuation of at least 100 residents. More than 120 firefighters are battling the blaze, supported by 43 vehicles and several aircraft. The Regional Civil Protection Emergency Plan has been activated to help manage the situation.
