Catalonia bans forest fires as risk drops to lowest level in four years

The regional government activates seasonal restrictions until October following a recovery in water reserves.

Generic image of a Mediterranean forest during the fire prevention season.
IA

Generic image of a Mediterranean forest during the fire prevention season.

The Generalitat's Department of Agriculture is launching the annual ban on forest fires this Sunday, March 15, across Catalonia, amid forecasts of the lowest fire risk in four years.

Government officials noted that while it is early to predict the full summer outlook, the increase in water reserves since early 2024 has significantly improved conditions. Rainfall through early June will be the final factor in determining the severity of the upcoming season.
Despite the positive outlook, experts warn that dead wood accumulated during previous droughts remains a significant hazard. Consequently, lighting fires in forested areas or within a 400-meter buffer zone is strictly prohibited until October 15 without special permission.
The digital platform 9PERFOC will continue to manage high-risk activity permits. This system uses mapping technology to monitor authorized activities and provides SMS alerts to users if permits are suspended due to weather conditions.