Firefighters from the Generalitat de Catalunya have been working since 16.03 today on a forest vegetation fire in the municipality of Alfarràs, in the Segrià comarca of Lleida. The blaze, burning through fine vegetation and pine trees with high intensity, has affected approximately 20 hectares, according to provisional data from the Agents Rurals.

As of 18.30, 49 operational units were deployed to the scene, including 10 aerial units and around 130 personnel. Firefighters from the Aragonese border region are also providing support. Due to the fire’s proximity and behaviour, Protecció Civil has issued an ES-ALERT to mobile phones in the area, urging residents to remain indoors, close doors and windows, and follow official instructions.

Evacuation and confinement measures are in place for the village of Aldaní, north of Alfarràs’s urban core, and nearby farms. The public can view the confinement zone map at gen.cat/confinaments.

Wind Shift Alters Tactics

During the first hour, westerly winds kept the fire’s left flank stable, allowing crews to focus on the right flank. However, a forecast shift from westerly to easterly (marinada) winds by 18.00 prompted a strategic change. Efforts are now concentrated on the left flank, closest to the fire’s head, which remains the only area still showing active flames.

Strong easterly winds could push this section into further forested areas, though currently the fire is moving towards agricultural land. The terrain, characterised by crops, forest, scrubland and rolling hills, is contributing to unpredictable fire movement through slopes and elevation changes.

Transport and Safety Measures

The Catalan Traffic Service (SCT) reports that the N-230 road is closed in the direction of El Pont de Suert near Alfarràs due to traffic regulation linked to the fire. Drivers are being rerouted via the C-26. Six Mossos d'Esquadra patrols are assisting with road closures, traffic control, and supporting confinement operations.

The Catalan Civil Protection Agency has activated the INFOCAT emergency plan at ALERT level. INFOCAT is the Special Plan for Forest Fires in Catalonia, coordinated by the Interior Department of the Generalitat. The CECAT remains in continuous contact with the town council of Alfarràs to assess and respond to any additional needs arising from the incident.

Primary sources: govern.cat, Generalitat de Catalunya, Generalitat de Catalunya - Departament d'Interior. Reported by gen.cat.