A spokesperson for the British Embassy in Lisbon told The Portugal News that following the fire in Pedrógão Grande, Leiria, the FCO updated its travel advice.

It was also confirmed that the Embassy has provided support for “a few” British nationals residing in or travelling through the area.

“Two Britons were admitted to hospital but have since been discharged”, the Embassy said, adding it is keeping in “close contact with central and local authorities and also hospitals” as the fallout from the fire unfolds.

Central Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for British residents in recent years, although no exact figures are available as to how many currently call the area home.

The FCO’s travel advice now recommends Britons “avoid travelling to the areas affected by forest fires until the authorities confirm that it is safe to do so.”

Last updated on Monday, 19 June, the advice states “a forest fire has claimed the lives of a large number of people in the Pedrogão Grande area of central Portugal. Other smaller fires have also been reported elsewhere in the country due to high temperatures. Avoid travelling to the affected areas until the authorities confirm that it’s safe to do so. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas and report fires to the emergency services on 112.”

At least sixty-two people died and as many again were left injured in a massive forest fire that broke out on Saturday in Pedrógão Grande in central Portugal, which quickly spread to three neighbouring villages.

Among them are at least four children.

The fire is understood to have ignited on Saturday in temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius following a dry lightening strike.

The government decreed three days of national mourning starting Sunday for the victims, many of whom are thought to have perished in their cars as they tried to escape the raging blaze.

Portugal’s Prime Minister visited the scene yesterday, and the President has cleared his agenda until tomorrow.

Concerned Britons are advised to contact the British Embassy (+351 21 392 4000).