Portugal forest fires rage on as death toll rises

Video. Portugal forest fires rage on as death toll rises

Close to 2,000 firefighters are still battling to control deadly forest fires that raged across central Portugal over the weekend.

Close to 2,000 firefighters are still battling to control deadly forest fires that raged across central Portugal over the weekend.

At least 62 people have perished and scores more have been injured by the wildfire, which broke on Saturday in the central region of Pedrógão Grande, possibly as a result of lightening strike.

The Portuguese government has declared three days of national mourning as it awaits the arrival of more water-dropping planes from Spain, France and Italy.

The EU and UN have pledged to provide assistance where necessary.