Collserola fire stabilised after forcing part of Sarrià into confinement

The fire began at around 15:35 in the area around the Carretera de les Aigües and generated a large column of smoke visible from numerous points in Barcelona and the metropolitan area. The flames reached land near Pedralbes and Esplugues de Llobregat.

Around thirty units from Bombers de Barcelona and Bombers de la Generalitat took part in the operation, supported by four aircraft. The teams worked throughout the afternoon in an area of forest vegetation that was especially vulnerable due to high temperatures and the extreme fire risk.

As a preventive measure, the City Council asked residents of Can Caralleu to remain indoors and recommended avoiding any travel towards Collserola. The Espai Mireia restaurant, located near the affected area, was also evacuated.

The Guardia Urbana closed paths and forest tracks to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Access to the Carretera de l’Arrabassada towards Sant Cugat was also restricted while firefighting work continued.

Shortly after 18:00, the situation began to improve. At around 18:20, municipal officials declared the fire stabilised, although teams continued working on the ground to secure the perimeter and prevent any possible flare-ups.

The fire occurred on a day when Barcelona had reinforced its response arrangements because of the high danger of forest fires. Collserola is a major source of concern because the forest lies practically alongside neighbourhoods, homes and roads, making swift action necessary whenever a column of smoke appears.

Stabilisation reduces the immediate danger, but access to the area must follow the instructions of the emergency services while work continues. On days of extreme heat, a careless act on paths, in gardens or in spaces near the forest can turn within minutes into an emergency that directly reaches Barcelona's neighbourhoods.