Three die as wildfire burns in Madeira
A WILDFIRE that began on the Portuguese island of Madeira swept into the streets of the picturesque local capital yesterday, killing three people and destroying dozens of homes.
The three who died were all elderly residents of Funchal, including one bedridden woman whose home in the city centre was engulfed by flames.
Miguel Albuquerque, the head of the Madeira archipelago’s regional government, said that another person was missing and two were seriously hurt. Over 300 had required medical treatment for smoke inhalation and burns.
The authorities believe the fire, which began outside Funchal, was started deliberately. Residents of described chaotic scenes as the blaze spread from building to building amid strong winds.
Hilário Pombo, who lives in Funchal, described a “Dantesque scene” unfolding in the city. “There were flames and smoke. The situation was completely out of control and the medical staff were scared,” the 19-year-old told Portugal’s Diário de Notícias newspaper.
Mr Albuquerque admitted yesterday that the fire was still burning, but had been brought “under control” in more favourable conditions. “The situation is complex but not catastrophic,” he said.
At least 37 buildings were destroyed. Hotels were also affected in the Atlantic island resort which has long been popular with British tourists, including the five-star Choupana Hills, which was razed to the ground.
Around 300 tourists were evacuated from their hotels to a sports stadium.
A 24-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday, accused of starting the fire deliberately in the mountains of São Roque, just outside Funchal. The suspect apparently has a criminal record as an arsonist.