In 2025, a total of 15 forest fires have been recorded in the Balearic Islands, affecting only 0.41 hectares. These figures represent a significant improvement compared to the same period last year, when 27 fires and 16.73 hectares burned were recorded. This marks the best pre-campaign in the past twenty years in terms of the number of incidents registered in the archipelago.

forest fires

Photos: CAIB.

Fire prevention campaign activation in the Balearic Islands

With the start of May, the Govern officially launches the high-risk forest fire season, which will continue until 15 October. This annual measure aims to protect natural heritage and ensure public safety during the hottest and driest months of the year.

During this period, it is forbidden to light fires within 50 metres of forested areas, as well as in any recreational area across the archipelago. In addition, burning in agricultural land located less than 500 metres from forest land will require administrative authorisation. Recommendations, regulations and daily updates regarding fire use can be consulted on the official website alertafoc.caib.es.

Prevention and extinguishing operations 2025

This year’s prevention and extinguishing operation includes 350 personnel, supported by five helicopters and three aircraft —two amphibious water bombers and one coordination and surveillance plane— stationed across Mallorca, Menorca and Eivissa. From June, two additional aircraft will be deployed in Mallorca. As a new feature, the coordination aircraft has been equipped with a high-resolution infrared camera to enhance real-time monitoring from the command centre.

forest fires

As for prevention efforts, interventions have already been carried out on 412 hectares across all islands, with a focus on restoring areas severely affected by storm Juliette in 2023. In 2025, more than 580 hectares will be treated thanks to public funding, in addition to another 180 hectares specifically targeting damage from the storm.

Six million over four years

Over the next four years, the Govern plans to allocate more than six million euros from the sustainable tourism tax to fire prevention infrastructure and forest bioeconomy projects. These include the installation of biomass boilers in public buildings and the purchase of machinery to process forest waste generated through cleaning and prevention activities.