Hundreds Flee Forest Fire in Southern Italy by Boat

Hundreds of people were evacuated by sea on Sunday from southern Italy as a forest fire raged along the Adriatic coast. The Italian coast guard reported that over 400 tourists and bathers were rescued by sea, describing it as the only viable evacuation route.

The operation focused on the area near Peschici, a town in the southern region of Puglia. Coast guard officials indicated that approximately 300 more individuals were expected to be evacuated. The rescue involved six coast guard vessels, three from the Italian financial police, and around 10 private boats.

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More than 400 tourists and bathers have been evacuated by sea, the only viable evacuation route

Firefighters and a Canadair water-bombing aircraft were engaged in combating the blaze. Television images showed a massive smoke column visible from miles away. Despite the intensity of the fire, local authorities stated that it did not pose an immediate threat to homes in Peschici.

The mayor of Peschici, Luigi d'Arenzo, described the situation as "under control at the moment." This incident follows a series of fires that have affected Sicily, leading to the evacuation of a clinic.

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The situation is under control at the moment