A fire involving reeds and shrubs declared this Sunday in El Prat de Llobregat has forced the closure of the B-250 road and one lane of the B-20, causing delays in access. Firefighters from the Generalitat have deployed a large ground and aerial operation with no reported injuries.
The fire started shortly after half past two in the afternoon in a dense area of reeds and shrubs in the municipality of El Prat de Llobregat, near the B-250 road. The column of smoke, visible from various points in Baix Llobregat, alerted residents and immediately activated emergency protocols. According to the firefighters from the Generalitat, there are no injured or affected individuals from the smoke or flames, although the extinguishing operation continues to work on controlling the perimeter.
The deployed operation includes 10 ground units (water trucks and command vehicles) and 3 aerial resources (helicopters and surveillance and attack planes). The firefighters are concentrating their efforts on the left flank and the second third of the right flank, the most active points with the highest risk of spread. The rapid intervention has prevented the flames from reaching nearby homes or facilities.
Traffic closures and delays on the B-20
The fire has had a direct impact on mobility in the area. For safety and to facilitate the passage of emergency vehicles, the B-250 road remains completely closed in the vicinity of the fire. Additionally, the Servei Català de Trànsit has reported the closure of one lane on the B-20, in the section between Cornellà de Llobregat and L'Hospitalet de Llobregat. This is causing significant delays during the weekend return operation, so drivers are advised to seek alternative routes or exercise caution.
Residents of El Prat and neighbouring municipalities such as Cornellà, L'Hospitalet, and Sant Boi have noticed the smell of smoke and the presence of helicopters flying over the area. Authorities are urging people to avoid approaching the affected area and not to hinder the extinguishing efforts. The wind and the dryness of the vegetation complicate the firefighters' work, who remain hopeful of controlling the fire in the coming hours if weather conditions do not worsen.
Background and recommendations
This is not the first time an area of reeds and shrubs in Baix Llobregat has burned in summer. Last year, a similar fire near El Prat airport forced the closure of the C-31 and mobilised dozens of personnel. On this occasion, the rapid activation of aerial resources has been key to preventing the fire from getting out of control. The firefighters remind the importance of not throwing cigarette butts or starting fires in risk areas during the hot months.
For drivers travelling on the B-20 or B-250, it is recommended to check real-time traffic conditions through the Servei Català de Trànsit website or navigation apps. It is expected that the closures will remain in place until the fire is completely controlled and the firefighters give the all-clear. The forecast is for the operation to remain active throughout the afternoon and evening to ensure total extinguishment and prevent re-ignition.
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