Croatia wildfire contained after burning 1,000 hectares; one dead, dozens injured

The wildfire that devastated the Omiš region of Croatia has been brought under control, with firefighters maintaining vigilance overnight and continuing cleanup efforts. The blaze, which ignited in a forest near Lokva Rogoznica, was fanned by strong winds, consuming a significant swathe of land before being contained.

Investigators pinpointed the fire's origin to a forest area along the road near Lokva Rogoznica. The flames rapidly advanced towards Omiš, affecting a strip approximately 23 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide, scorching an estimated one thousand hectares. The fire claimed the life of a 34-year-old woman from Bosnia and Herzegovina, who had been reported missing.

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All fire sites were calm overnight, there were no new outbreaks, and firefighters were on duty at all locations.

In dramatic scenes, over 500 people sought refuge in the sea as the fire raged. Local residents, using more than 20 private boats, joined official services in a chaotic rescue operation hampered by dense smoke, wind, and waves. One rescuer described the terrifying experience of navigating towards cries for help from people stranded in the water, some up to 100 meters offshore.

The material damage is extensive, with at least 58 residential buildings, two garages, 36 vehicles, and 25 boats destroyed. While reception centers have closed as most evacuees have returned home, cleanup and restoration efforts are ongoing, including the gradual restoration of electricity to affected areas.

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In their eyes, you could see the struggle for existence and survival.