Madrid adapts its patron-saint festivities in response to the highest fire alert

The Community of Madrid maintains the ban on setting off pyrotechnics in forest areas and within a radius of 400 metres around them. The restriction seeks to prevent a spark from causing new outbreaks at a particularly delicate time for the region’s woodland.

The measure comes after fires have ravaged more than 77,000 hectares and forced thousands of people to relocate. The Ministry of the Interior has also temporarily suspended the use of agricultural machinery for harvesting in Madrid and Ávila while the emergency continues.

Soto del Real has decided to postpone its pyrotechnic display until October, when the Virgen del Rosario festivities are held. Collado Villalba, meanwhile, cancelled the fireworks that traditionally closed its festive programme.

In Villaverde Bajo, the planned display was retained, since the area is not close to forest zones and the ban did not apply. Each municipality must assess the location, weather conditions and risk level before authorising this kind of activity.

Celebrations are continuing in Sierra Norte towns such as La Hiruela, Casas de Uceda, Soto del Real and Lozoya. San Lorenzo de El Escorial will take over from 10 August with processions, concerts and street activities.

The 112 emergency service maintains a very high danger level, and forecasts point to high temperatures, wind and low humidity. These conditions make flames easier to spread and require surveillance to be reinforced during events that bring together hundreds or thousands of people.

Street festivals, pilgrimages and concerts continue to form part of the Madrid summer, but pyrotechnics are no longer essential on festive nights. Checking last-minute changes and respecting restrictions will be key to enjoying celebrations without increasing the risk to towns and their natural surroundings.