Andorran Firefighters Aid Catalonia in Battling Lightning-Struck Wildfire

Andorran firefighters continued their support on Saturday for efforts to fully extinguish a lightning-struck wildfire in Spain's remote Pallars Sobirà region, where the blaze remained stabilised but active after affecting around 30 hectares.

The fire broke out yesterday morning in Farrera due to a lightning strike, prompting immediate coordination by Catalonia's fire service. Andorra's fire brigade mobilised an Heliand helicopter and four personnel for the initial response on Friday, focusing on the challenging Romadriu flank in the nearby Llavorsí municipality. Ground access proved difficult, relying on off-road vehicles and air assets given the high-mountain terrain.

This morning around 10:00, the same Andorran helicopter team reactivated to reinforce on-site operations, targeting hotspots and consolidating the perimeter. Provisional figures from rural agents indicate 12 air resources and 22 ground units took part Friday. Officials stressed the fire's containment amid its complexity, with lower temperatures aiding progress.

Andorran involvement reflects routine cross-border cooperation with Catalonia's firefighters for nearby incidents needing aerial or specialist reinforcement. Full extinguishment efforts persist as crews work to eliminate remaining heat sources.

Catalan teams and units from further afield also contributed to the multi-day operation.

Separately, Pas de la Casa residents noted smoke and smells from 32 wildfires across France on Friday, creating midday haze that suggested a local threat, though none materialised.