Major wildfire forces evacuation of about 1,200 people in Croatia
A fast-spreading wildfire on Croatia's coast has forced the evacuation of roughly 1,200 residents and tourists. One person died and about 40 were injured.
A serious situation has developed on Croatia's coast after a large wildfire broke out on the evening of August 13 near the village of Lokva Rogoznica. Driven by strong winds, the flames quickly spread through pine forests and reached the popular tourist area around Omiš, located about six kilometers from where the fire started.
According to the BBC, one person died in the fire and around 40 were injured. Ten of the injured have been taken to intensive care units.
About 1,200 people evacuated
Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković announced that approximately 1,200 people — both local residents and tourists — have been evacuated from the danger zone. Evacuation centers have been set up in several coastal towns to accommodate those forced to leave their homes and accommodations.
Slavko Tucaković, head of Croatia's firefighting service, described the blaze as one of the largest and most complex in the country's history. The fire has caused significant damage, destroying homes and cars. Authorities estimate that around 1,000 hectares burned within just four hours.
Fire also reaches areas near Split
Strong winds continue to fuel the spread of the flames, and the fire has now reached inhabited areas near Split. Firefighters and other emergency services continue working intensively to halt its further spread and protect both people and property.
The wildfire poses a serious threat not only to local residents but also to the many tourists currently staying in this popular Croatian coastal holiday region during the peak summer season.
