The regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, has confirmed from Navalcarnero that evacuations and lockdowns remain in eleven municipalities of Sierra Oeste. The regional government will allocate 30 million to housing and a line of guarantees for businesses and self-employed individuals.
The president of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, appeared this Monday from Navalcarnero to update the situation regarding the fires affecting Sierra Oeste. She described the disaster as "unprecedented" and announced a package of economic and social aid for those affected, while evacuations and lockdowns continue in eleven municipalities.
Specifically, the municipalities of Fresnedillas de la Oliva, Robledo de Chavela, Navalagamella, Las Rozas de Puerto Real, Cenicientos, Cadalso de los Vidrios, and Zarzalejo remain evacuated. Additionally, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Pelayos de la Presa, Valdemaqueda, and Villa del Prado are under lockdown. The president emphasized that the situation remains "serious" and urged the population to be patient while firefighting efforts progress.
The Community of Madrid has set up 18 reception points, where more than 3,000 people from 15 municipalities have already been assisted. Furthermore, healthcare assistance has been reinforced with the reopening of health centres in Villa del Prado, Pelayos de la Presa, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, and Valdemaqueda. So far, no serious injuries have been reported; most of the assistance has been for heat strokes, psychological support, or the provision of medications to those in lockdown or displaced.
On the logistical front, Ayuso announced that the 173 residents of the López Rumayor centre in San Martín de Valdeiglesias will be able to return to their facilities this Monday. The reopening of the El Escorial camp, from which nearly 5,000 people were evacuated, is also planned. Additionally, a time slot will be established for farmers to access their farms and care for their animals.
Regarding housing, the regional government will allocate 30 million euros to a plan that includes the temporary allocation of properties from the Social Housing Agency for those who have lost their primary residence, rental assistance for a maximum of twelve months, and subsidies for the repair and reconstruction of damaged homes. To this end, a free legal advisory service has been launched in collaboration with the Illustrious College of Lawyers of Madrid, which will guide those affected in processing aid, damage claims, compensation, and insurance.
For affected businesses and self-employed individuals, the Community has created a line of guarantees through Avalmadrid. Additionally, employment demands will be automatically renewed until September 15 to avoid unnecessary travel for those affected. A home pharmaceutical dispensing service has also been launched in collaboration with the Official College of Pharmacists and the affected municipalities.
Ayuso highlighted that, despite the magnitude of the disaster, there have been no fatalities, which she considered the main reason to maintain hope while firefighting and recovery efforts continue. The president concluded by appealing for citizen collaboration and assured that the regional government will continue working to restore normalcy as soon as possible.
Residents of the affected municipalities can request information and assistance at the established reception points or through the official channels of the Community of Madrid. It is recommended to follow the instructions of emergency services and stay informed through official sources.
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