The severe forest fires that have been affecting the west of the Community of Madrid and the south of the province of Ávila for several days keep thousands of people on edge and mobilize a large emergency response. The simultaneous advance of several outbreaks, favored by weather conditions, has forced the evacuation of more than 10,000 people in Madrid municipalities such as Villa del Prado, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Pelayos de la Presa and Aldea del Fresno, while the fire declared in Burgohondo continues to be one of the main causes for concern due to its evolution and the threat it poses to both territories.
It is in this context that the Bishop of Ávila, Mons. Jesús Rico García, has expressed his closeness to those affected by the fire that originated in Burgohondo, which has spread to other towns in the province and has reached the Natural Reserve of the Valle de Iruelas. In addition to assuring his prayer for the victims and for those fighting the flames, the prelate has made the human and material resources of the diocese available to those affected.
Closeness to the evacuees and support for the firefighting teams
In the statement, the prelate assures that he is following «with deep concern» the evolution of the fire, which originated in Burgohondo and spread to other towns in the province. Mons. Rico especially expresses his closeness to the residents evacuated from the area of the Burguillo reservoir, from El Tiemblo and from other nearby towns, who are suffering the consequences of the advance of the flames.
The bishop also expresses his recognition of the firefighters, forest brigades, security forces and emergency services who work tirelessly to contain the fire and protect both the population and the threatened homes.
The Church offers help to affected families
The Diocese of Ávila has announced that it is making its material and human resources available to those affected through the parishes in the area and its priests, in order to accompany and provide the necessary help to the families affected by the fire.
Invitation to prayer
Finally, Mons. Jesús Rico has entrusted all those affected to the protection of the Virgin and has asked the faithful to pray for the protection of the residents, for the safety of those fighting the fire and so that the emergency can be resolved as soon as possible. Likewise, he has encouraged the entire diocese to remain united and in solidarity in these moments of special difficulty.