Croatia’s Adriatic coast is battling widespread wildfires, forcing evacuations and causing injuries. The blazes, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, have prompted a massive response from firefighters, air, and naval units. Authorities are investigating potential arson as a cause.
Adriatic Inferno: Wildfires Engulf Croatian Coast
A major wildfire erupted early Saturday morning between Omiš and Makarska on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, specifically in the Pisak area. The blaze, fueled by strong winds and dense pine forests, rapidly spread, threatening residential areas in Pisak and Marušići. Evacuations were swiftly initiated as homes came under direct threat.
Emergency Response and Containment Efforts
Firefighting efforts were immediately launched, with units from Omiš, Makarska, and Kaštela deployed. The state intervention unit was activated, and two Canadair aircraft were dispatched to combat the flames from the air. The Adriatic Highway (DC8) between Omiš and Makarska was closed due to the fire and emergency operations but has since reopened. Naval units were also deployed, marking the first time Croatian Navy’s Special Purpose Firefighting Units have been used in 2025, assisting in the evacuation of 25 people from Marušići.
Impact and Casualties
The wildfire has scorched an estimated 300 hectares of vegetation. While initial reports indicated no injuries, later updates confirmed that one firefighter and several residents sustained injuries. At least 12 houses were reported to have been burned down. Additionally, Pisak and the eastern part of Marušići experienced power outages.
Investigation into Arson
Authorities are intensively investigating the possibility of arson as the cause of the fires. Local residents reported suspicious activity, including sightings of an individual on a motorbike in the days leading up to the blaze, raising concerns about deliberate ignition. The deputy police chief of the Split-Dalmatia region confirmed the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Wildfires have ravaged Croatia’s Adriatic coast, particularly between Omiš and Makarska.
- Evacuations of residents and tourists were carried out in affected villages like Pisak and Marušići.
- One firefighter and several residents were injured, and at least 12 houses were destroyed.
- A massive coordinated response involved ground firefighters, Canadair aircraft, and Croatian Navy units.
- Authorities are investigating potential arson as the cause of the fires.
- The Adriatic Highway (DC8) was temporarily closed but has since reopened.
Sources:
- VIDEO: Huge wildfire breaks out between Omiš and Makarska – evacuations underway, Croatia Week.
- Wildfire erupts in Croatia, sparking evacuations, The Economic Times.
- Wildfire on Croatia’s Adriatic coast injures several people and forces dozens to evacuate (Video), Social News XYZ.
- Big wildfire contained on Croatian coast after air and sea response, Croatia Week.
- Fire breaks out in Pisak, Croatia-Xinhua, Xinhua.