Forest fires are a regular phenomenon in the Mediter­ranean regions that have a dry climate and a very hot summer. Across Portugal, 900 000 ha were burned between 2003 and 2005 - approximately 10% of the mainland territory. According to information released by the Portuguese Forest Authority (AFN), in the mu­nicipality of Tavira, there were 699 forest fires and flares between 1980 and 2006, which caused the de­struction of 5 689 ha of forest stands and bushes. The worst year was 2004, with 3 719 ha burned.

Forest fires have a direct impact on human life and goods as well as plants and animals. They have a further impact on biodiversity by destroying food sources and shelter, which provides the habitat for numerous species. Tavi­ra has seen an increased occurance of invasive species and the recurrent appearance of species that grow in poor and degraded soils. In Portugal, according to the AFN, the vast majority of forest fires does not start from natural causes and are directly or indirectly related to human activity.