Bosnian Wildfires Spread to Southern Croatia, Konavle Smolders for Tenth Day

A fierce battle against wildfires continues in southern Croatia, where blazes originating in Bosnia and Herzegovina have spread across the Konavle and Župa dubrovačka regions. The fires have been active for ten days, engulfing the landscape in smoke and creating an atmosphere of uncertainty for local residents.

“

The houses have been successfully defended, and we pushed the fire uphill. We are slowly following it, and I hope we will catch it. Yesterday we followed it for 10 kilometers, the Canadairs helped us. Wherever there is an open flame and smoke, we go towards it; if a firefighter doesn't pass, it's not extinguished.

Approximately 50 firefighters, supported by Canadair aircraft, are engaged in the challenging task of combating the flames. They are working tirelessly in difficult and inaccessible terrain, with the primary objective of preventing the fire from reaching inhabited areas. Despite successful efforts to defend homes so far, the fire demands constant monitoring and a sustained presence.

Residents in villages such as Stravča and Njivice are living amidst the smoke, facing conditions exacerbated by a prolonged drought. Reports indicate that the region has not seen rain for months, further complicating firefighting efforts. The sheer scale of the fire necessitates continuous vigilance, with fire crews on duty 24 hours a day.

“

50 people a day must be on this large area, we are on duty 24 hours a day, that's the only way. We must be aware that this is a major fire, not to mention what it's like every morning from Molunat to Cavtat, all in smoke; the airport was unrecognizable today.

Fire officials noted that while Croatian Canadair aircraft have provided crucial assistance by reducing flames, the fire cannot be considered extinguished until ground crews can reach and douse all hot spots. The challenging terrain, high temperatures, and the potential for strong winds, particularly the Bura, pose ongoing threats that could intensify the blaze and facilitate its spread. Notably, Croatian firefighters have been operating without a formal request for assistance from Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite the fires crossing the border.

“

As far as I know, they haven't submitted a request from any side of BiH, so our Canadairs can't just go.