“Dantesque scenario” in the historical center of Funchal – Daily News – Lisbon

People abandon their homes. Buildings in flames

The fire has reached the area of ​​the church of St. Peter, in downtown Funchal, after having consumed a building vacant, he confirmed to Lusa the Police Public Safety (PSP) in place.

the journalist Lusa also found the complicated situation in the penalty area with several houses on fire, in which three vehicles of a construction company are trying to help and play water in homes.

also see some people to leave their homes in the city center, carrying bags and animals.

the reports give account of a “Dantesque scenario” and a situation “completely uncontrolled”, with many active spots around the city, including the tilde, Rochinha, Penteada and you can hear the sound of some explosions.

the highway was closed, but already re-opened to traffic . Conditioned are the entrances to the city, where traffic is chaotic, as noted the agency.

The Lusa has tried to contact the regional authorities to make a point of the situation, but it was not yet possible.

However, the chief of staff of the mayor, which is on the site, confirmed to Lusa that some vacant buildings located in the historic area of ​​Funchal are burning.

Speaking to Lusa, Miguel Iglesias, chief of staff Paulo Cafôfo President revealed that at 21:40 were ongoing operations in the area history from the center of Funchal where there are “vacant buildings on fire,” not referring to the existence of victims.

Miguel Iglesias is on site, along with the president of the local authority.

the strong wind and high temperatures caused the fire raging in the high areas of Funchal from the afternoon Monday descend to the center of the city, causing chaos and panic among the population.

the traffic is chaotic, with many traffic jams in downtown Funchal, and the Public Security Police (PSP) ended inputs the city witnessed the Lusa.

the Lusa found it very difficult to breathe because of the hot weather and dense smoke, with people to wear masks. Have been audible several explosions after the situation has worsened in the evening.

The prime minister has already announced that a team of 36 members will travel today to Madeira to support the fight against fire.