The extensive fire-fighting device in the Cinco Villas of Zaragoza handed over the night of this Saturday with the first objective achieved. The fire is not advancing, and although it remains active and at operational level 2 according to the Civil Protection Plan, this means that the perimeter (of 80 kilometers) is stable after five days of intense battle. This Sunday, the operation will focus on consolidating that large perimeter and ensuring the fire does not reactivate.
“Today is the first day we breathe,” said, with some relief, the president of Aragón, Jorge Azcón (PP), who traveled this morning to the command post in Farasdués (Zaragoza). “I hope this is the end,” he wished after thanking the work of more than 450 personnel who have worked tirelessly. “The fire looks different, there are no flames anymore, which does not mean we will lower our guard,” he added. Azcón flew over the area by helicopter this morning.
What has not changed is the evacuation situation of the residents of Orés, Asín, Luesia, Malpica de Arba, and Uncastillo, who still cannot return to their homes. Of this thousand people, 60 remained on Saturday in the sports pavilion of Ejea de los Caballeros (Zaragoza), which was the first reception center, before some residents were relocated to hotels in the region to spend the night more comfortably. They have been distributed in accommodations in Ejea, Sádaba, Tauste, and Huesca. Also, the elderly from the residences who were relocated to another center in Zaragoza remain there, and according to the latest statement from the Government of Aragón, they are well. The Executive announces a reinforcement of Social Services staff to assist those affected.
Convoys have been organized to two towns, Asín – where the fire entered the urban area and affected up to ten homes – and Orés, where the fire started. Groups of accompanied people were allowed to go get medicines, clothes, and other belongings due to a situation that is prolonging. Passage was also allowed to feed the animals on farms. During this Sunday, the intention of the regional government is to work with the mayors to organize new safe access routes. The Aragón government makes a renewed call against hoaxes and insists that, despite some messages circulating on social networks asking for external help, the operation is sufficient. In fact, they insist that no one approach the affected areas or spaces near the fire.
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At midday, five roads remain closed, although according to the regional government, new inspections were to be carried out soon to assess their reopening. The Civil Guard maintains control of the evacuated populations, traffic, and access to the affected area.
For this Sunday, high temperatures are expected, but winds of lower intensity than in previous days.
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