Serbia: Fire on Stolovi mountain not localized but improving

The fire raging on Serbia's Stolovi mountain has not yet been fully localized, but the situation has significantly improved, according to Nedeljko Gagić, head of the Ministry of Interior's fire-and-rescue units.

Firefighters, along with workers from Srbijašume and other services, battled local hotspots throughout the night. On Tuesday, 55 personnel from fire units in Kraljevo, Novi Pazar, Čačak, Užice, and Prijepolje were involved in the firefighting efforts. Volunteer firefighters and members of the Otis organization also contributed to the operation.

Despite efforts, one side of the fire, facing Kraljevo, remains unlocalized due to extremely steep and inaccessible terrain. Srbijašume's machinery has been working to create firebreaks on this side, and a Ministry of Interior "super puma" helicopter has been deployed to prevent further spread. A brief, light rain shower on Tuesday afternoon helped reduce heat and slow the fire's spread by increasing fuel moisture.

Separately, fires continue to burn in Deliblatska Peščara, Goč, and near Vranje, affecting significant areas of forest and vegetation. While rain has helped in some locations, strong winds continue to pose challenges, particularly on Goč. No structures are reported to be threatened in the Vranje fire.