A major forest fire in Paüls, Tarragona, has produced a cloud of smoke that extends over 400 km, reaching as far as Alicante and Murcia. Authorities have confirmed that the severe burning smell reported by thousands of residents in these locations was caused by the Catalan fire, which was fuelled by the prevailing winds.
The 112 emergency services in Murcia and the Valencian Community received hundreds of complaints reporting the presence of smoke, necessitating an immediate investigation. After speaking with meteorological agencies, it was concluded that the cause was the Tarragona fire, which had already destroyed almost 3,000 hectares and forced 18,000 people to remain confined in nine towns.
How did the smoke spread to Alicante and Murcia?
Wind charts produced by À Punt show smoke moving in a circular pattern from southern Catalonia, entering the Mediterranean, reaching the Alicante coast, and spreading to Murcia.
🔹 Wind direction: clockwise.
🔹 Distance travelled: 400-450 km.
🔹 Visible consequences include haze and a foul odour.
“We received over 100 complaints in Murcia regarding the smell of burning. After investigating, we determined that it was caused by the Tarragona fire,” explained the Murcia Emergency Coordination Centre.
Fire in Tarragona
The fire at Paüls (Baix Ebre) began on Tuesday and was one of the most serious in Catalonia this year. The flames have ravaged forests and farmland, and firemen are working tirelessly to bring them under control.
Key information regarding the fire
Aspect Detail
🔹Hectares burned There are over 3,000 affected populations. Nine municipalities are limited.
🔹Evacuated persons 18,000
🔹The smoke travelled 400-450 kilometres to Alicante/Murcia. Why did it travel so far?
🔹According to meteorologists, the smoke travelled hundreds of kilometres thanks to a mix of winds and atmospheric conditions.
Important considerations
High-altitude air currents carried particulates over large distances.
Low atmospheric dispersion: The smoke remained dense.
Relative humidity made it easier to perceive the fragrance.
“The wind map clearly shows how the smoke circled the Mediterranean before reaching Alicante,” explained À Punt’s meteorologist.
Emergency Response: Mass calls to 112.
Emergency services in Murcia and the Valencian Community were swamped by citizen notifications.
Murcia: Over 100 calls in a few hours.
Alicante/Valencia: “Numerous” enquiries, according to 112 CV.
🔹 Civil Protection Advice: 🔹 Do not be worried as smoke does not constitute a direct threat.
🔹 Avoid outdoor activities if you experience respiratory discomfort.
Smoke distribution map (winds carried smoke from Tarragona to Alicante and Murcia). (Simulated depiction of clockwise winds from Tarragona to the south)
Environmental and health impact
Although the smoke is not harmful from this distance, experts warn:
🔹 Potential consequences for sensitive individuals:
🔹Eye and throat discomfort.
🔹Asthmatics and allergy patients may feel discomfort.
🔹Wear a mask outside if you are sensitive.
Fire Forecast and Evolution
While Catalan firefighters work to stabilise the front, winds may shift direction, reducing the amount of smoke reaching Murcia and Alicante.
Possible scenarios:
🔹If the wind changes, the smoke will lessen. 🔹 If the draft remains, the burning odour will continue.
Official statement
“The smoke doesn’t pose a risk, but we’re continuing to monitor the situation” – Emergency Services 112 CV.
Conclusion: An unusual phenomenon
The fact that the smoke travelled over 400 km indicates the severity of the fire and the importance of winds in dispersing particulates.
🔹 What happens if smoke is detected?
🔹Before reporting an emergency, check with official sources.
🔹Avoid burning or engaging in activities that produce additional smoke.
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