Met Office and Forestry Department issue warnings for extreme temperatures and risk of forest fires

07:28 - 14 August 2024

Current Affairs Reporter

A yellow warning for extreme maximum temperature has been issued by the Meteorological Department for Wednesday, 14 August.

The warning will be in effect from 11am to 5pm local time, according to which the maximum temperature inland is expected to reach around 41 degrees Celsius.

The Forestry Department has also issued a press release noting the risk of forest fires igniting and spreading on Wednesday will be at a "red alert" level.

It said that lighting a fire without a permit is prohibited and constitutes an offense, which according to the Forest Law of 2012, is punishable by up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to €50,000, or both penalties combined.

Under the 1988 Law on the Prevention of Fires in rural areas, the offense is punishable by up to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to €20,000, or both penalties combined. Lighting a fire for cooking is only allowed in barbecue designated areas of picnic sites.

The Forestry Department also urged the public to be especially cautious during their outings, completely avoiding actions and activities that could cause a fire, such as using tools or agricultural machinery that generate heat, sparks, or flames, such as grinders, welding, and electric welding.

It also called on those who notice smoke or fire to immediately call 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112 (Fire Service).

(Source: CNA)

Met Office and Forestry Department issue warnings for extreme temperatures and risk of forest fires

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