VIDEO: Big wildfire near Split threatens homes

SPLIT, 27 August 2024 – A wildfire that erupted in the vicinity of Žrnovnica near Split, Croatia, has rapidly intensified, presenting a significant challenge for local emergency services tonight.

The fire, which began last night due to a lightning strike, gained momentum in the afternoon, necessitating a large-scale firefighting effort.

Four water-bombing aircraft were initially deployed to combat the blaze. However, these aircraft had to withdraw from the scene as darkness fell, leaving ground forces to continue the battle.

Reinforcements were called in from various regions, including Zadar, Split, Šibenik, and even as far as Zagreb, as confirmed by the Croatian Firefighters’ Association. Additional support came from fire brigades in the Lika-Senj, Šibenik-Knin, and Zadar counties.

The situation remains complex, with the fire covering an extensive area between Žrnovnica and Donje Sitno.

The fire front stretches several hundred metres, although it has slowed compared to its earlier advance, Dalmacija Danas said.

Speaking to HRT, Mario Mikas, the Chief of the Split Fire Brigade, described the situation as “large and complex.” He added, “We’ve managed to suppress some parts of the fire and move it away from homes in Žrnovnica, but we are still facing challenges near Donje Sitno. Our aim is to contain this front by morning.”

Despite the ongoing threat, firefighters have successfully defended dozens of residential properties, preventing any significant damage to homes. Mikas reassured the public, stating, “No houses have been damaged.” Slavko Tucaković, also speaking to local media, noted that the spread of the fire towards Podstrana had been halted, with resources being redistributed to critical areas of the fireline.

Although no official evacuations have been ordered, two firefighting vehicles sustained damage during the efforts. Currently, around 140 firefighters are on the ground, with additional aid on the way to support the ongoing efforts.

The fire site was visited by Split’s Mayor, Ivica Puljak, and his deputy, Bojan Ivošević, who expressed their solidarity with the firefighters.

“I came to support these people who are fighting to protect homes. It seems they have succeeded here in Žrnovnica, and now they are working to prevent the fire from spreading further. I hope they will manage to protect the houses, citizens, and nature,”

Mayor Puljak stated. He also praised the firefighters’ dedication, remarking, “Firefighters from all over Dalmatia have come to help. We must admire these people who are giving their all to protect everything.”

While the situation in Žrnovnica appears to have stabilised, concerns remain regarding the fire in Donje Sitno. Meanwhile, the Žrnovnica-Tugare County Road (ŽC6142) remains closed due to the fire, with traffic being redirected via the Adriatic Highway (DC8) between Omiš and Split, according to reports from the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK).

The fire continues to be a significant challenge for local authorities and emergency services, with efforts ongoing to fully contain the blaze and prevent further destruction.