Wildfire in Sanaüja, Lleida, brought under control after burning over 50 hectares
Firefighters in Catalonia have declared the Sanaüja wildfire under control on Sunday morning, following an overnight operation that managed to douse the flames that affected more than 50 hectares of agricultural and forest land.
Fire origin and spread on Saturday
A wildfire broke out near Masia dels Flares in the municipality of Sanaüja (Lleida) at 13:02 on Saturday, 13 June 2026. Flames initially consumed agricultural vegetation before advancing into forested areas along the crest of the Serra de les Valls. By mid-afternoon the fire had descended the ridge, losing some speed but continuing to burn with intensity. The affected surface reached at least 52 hectares, with provisional data from Rural Agents indicating about 24 hectares of agricultural land burned.
Firefighting deployment scaled up
The Generalitat fire service deployed a growing force throughout Saturday afternoon. Initial response of 25 ground units, three helicopters, and four airplanes was soon reinforced to 39 then 45 ground units, with five helicopters and four airplanes working to anchor the fire's head and flanks. Local farmers assisted with tractors, mowing fields to halt the fire's spread through agricultural zones, while members of the Grup Especial de Prevenció d'Incendis Forestals (GEPIF) plowed firebreaks.
Stabilization and overnight work
The fire was declared stabilized at about 16:45 on Saturday. Firefighters continued working through the night and into Sunday morning, targeting hot spots and guarding against rekindling by the forecast marinada wind. Around 15 ground crews remained on site early Sunday for surveillance and perimeter review.
- Fire reported near Masia dels Flares, Sanaüja (Lleida).
- Fire stabilized after burning 52 hectares.
- Fire declared under control; monitoring continues.
Final containment and monitoring on Sunday
By Sunday morning, 14 June, the Bombers de la Generalitat announced the fire was under control. Monitoring and mop-up operations were ongoing, with crews checking the entire perimeter. The emergency services received roughly 60 calls related to the incident. No injuries or evacuations were reported.
Agricultural aid and environmental impact
The fire affected a mix of agricultural land and forest mass. Farmers' tractors and specialized prevention units played a key role in limiting the spread. While the total burned area exceeded 50 hectares, the early containment prevented a larger disaster in the county.
