Portuguese police said the forest fire that ravaged the mountainous region of Pedrogao Grande, 200 km northeast of Lisbon, may have been caused by a lightning strike on June 17.
The fire has killed at least 62 people and Portugal's prime minister has warned the death toll could rise even further. Firefighters continue to put out the flames and search for survivors in burnt down buildings.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa made a statement regarding the latest situation on Monday, saying as of midday on Monday they have control over about 80% of the fires. Unpredictable winds are making the situation more difficult to deal with.
Officials also announced on Monday 24 of the victims had been identified – all of whom are Portuguese nationals.
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