Several wildfires burn across Dalmatia

Several wildfires are burning across Dalmatia, with the most serious fire on the island of Korčula, where rugged terrain and strong winds are making firefighting efforts difficult.

The large blaze, in the Kapje area between Blato and Smokvica, has forced authorities to close the main road between Korčula and Vela Luka near Blato. The fire has engulfed a large area of pine forest.

National Fire Chief Zlatko Tucaković said the situation is serious, but stressed that no homes or residents are currently at risk.

"There is no danger to homes or people at this time. No firefighters have been injured. All available resources in Dubrovnik-Neretva County are on the ground. Two Canadair aircraft and one Air Tractor are currently operating, and another Canadair is on the way. That will bring the total to three aircraft over the Blato area," Tucaković said.

Dubrovnik-Neretva County Fire Chief Stjepan Simović said firefighters from across Korčula and southern Dalmatia have been deployed to contain the blaze.

He said all firefighting units on Korčula have been activated, along with crews from Pelješac—including Orebić, Kuna, Trpanj, and Putnikovići—as well as units from Metković, Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Coast, Župa Dubrovačka, and Konavle.

Simović said three Canadair aircraft would continue water-dropping operations until nightfall but warned that firefighters were facing a long night as strong winds continued to fuel the fire.

The wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon.

Another wildfire is burning on a hill above Grebaštica, near Šibenik. Firefighters there are also receiving aerial support, although no homes are currently threatened.

Two additional fires broke out on the island of Brač on Saturday. Both have since been brought under control.

With thunderstorms in the forecast, the Croatian Fire Service has warned that wildfire conditions remain dangerous and is urging residents to immediately report any signs of smoke or fire by calling the emergency number 193.