North Macedonia declares 30-day state of crisis due to wildfire threat

The government of North Macedonia has declared a 30-day state of crisis throughout the country, effective August 1, in response to heightened risks of open-space and forest fires. The decision was made to facilitate a timely, coordinated, and effective response to the evolving situation.

According to a government session statement, the measure aims to maximize the mobilization of all available institutional capacities to protect citizens' lives, their property, and the nation's natural resources. The declaration underscores the seriousness of the fire threat facing the country.

The crisis declaration includes the activation of the Crisis Management Center Headquarters. This body will be in continuous session and is tasked with preparing an action plan for fire prevention and management within 24 hours. It will also assess available human and material-technical resources and coordinate the actions of all relevant institutions.

All state administration bodies have been instructed by the government to act in accordance with crisis management regulations and to fully deploy their capacities for prompt and effective on-the-ground response. The move signals a comprehensive governmental effort to mitigate potential fire damage.