The usual silence of the Les Gavarres mountain range has been shattered in recent days by the roar of fire trucks and the anxious hearts of residents in the Baix Empordà and Gironès regions. As of July 6,the wildfire ravaging this green lung is currently 70% contained along its perimeter, but 30% of the flames remain active. Firefighters continue to work tirelessly on the ground, as the risk of the fire reigniting and high temperatures have prevented them from declaring the fire definitively under control this Sunday.
So far, the flames have affected some 2,300 hectares within a perimeter of about 40 kilometers, resulting in ten people with minor injuries and eight homes completely destroyed. Although the regional government has already lifted the lockdown in the two affected municipalities, the situation remains in the emergency phase of the INFOCAT plan, and access to the mountain range has been completely prohibited for safety reasons.
Road Closures and Active Flanks
Travel in the area surrounding Les Gavarres is heavily affected by the fire’s progress. If you must drive, please be awarethat the GI-660 highway between La Bisbal d’Empordà and Calonge, as well as the GIV-6612 between Santa Cristina d’Aro and Calonge, are completely closed to traffic. In addition, access to the interior of the affected area remains restricted, and entry is permitted only on a very limited basis and always under the escort of police patrols.
Emergency crews remain highly vigilant on the left flank in the Mont-ras and La Bisbal area, as well as on the right flank, where the impact of the sea breeze could complicate the situation at any moment.
Avoiding “fire tourism”
In times of uncertainty, the best way to help is, in fact, to stay away. The authorities have been very clear on this point and are asking people “not to engage in ‘fire tourism’ and to avoid traveling to the area so as not to hinder emergency services.”
There is no donation campaign open to the public, nor is there a call for general citizen volunteers; the work on the ground is already meticulously coordinated among firefighters, the UME, the ADF, the Mossos, and organized volunteer groups. To support the operation, the most effective way is to respect the restrictions and call 112 only in the event of a new emergency.
Essential Orders and Level 4 Restrictions
Given the extreme risk of wildfire, Level 4 of the Alfa Plan—the highest prevention level established by the Agents Rurals—has been activated in 20 municipalities in the area. This extraordinary measure restricts access to and the conduct of recreational activities in all forested areas and requires strict compliance with the following orders:
Suspension of Burning: All permits granted for the burning of stubble, pruning debris, forestry waste, and permanent pastures are temporarily canceled.
- Total ban on open fires: Fires may not be lit in any open space, including highway rest areas, recreational areas, and campgrounds (even if they are designated for that purpose).
- Machinery Restrictions: It is prohibited to use machinery and equipment in the mountains and rural areas within 500 meters of forested areas that could generate sparks, explosions, or electrical discharges (except with authorization or for firefighting operations).
- Hazardous tools: The use of blowtorches, circular saws, and similar tools is prohibited within 400 meters of forested areas.
- Fireworks and Waste: It is strictly prohibited to bring in or use fireworks, as well as to throw or abandon burning objects or any material that could start a fire.
