Serbia: Firefighters Battle Massive Blaze with Russian Water Bomber Support

A massive wildfire continues to rage in Serbia's Deliblatska Pescara nature reserve, scorching over 3,600 hectares of vegetation, including 30% forests, since it ignited on August 5. Firefighters, supported by a Russian water bomber, are struggling to contain the blaze amid a new heatwave and strong winds that have intensified the flames.

“

The situation remains difficult. More than 435 people are mobilized on the ground, we have enough vehicles, but the terrain is difficult to access (due to vegetation) and has sandy soil, which prevents vehicles from getting close to the fire sites.

The fire, located about 60 kilometers east of Belgrade, threatened a small hamlet on Thursday, prompting authorities to order an evacuation. While homes have been preserved so far, the terrain's sandy soil and difficult accessibility hinder the efforts of the more than 435 personnel deployed, including firefighters, soldiers, and emergency sector members.

Minister of Interior Ivica Dacic described the situation as "difficult," noting that the available vehicles struggle to reach the fire's core. The Russian IL-76 water bomber, capable of carrying 42,000 liters, has made three drops, totaling 120,000 liters, but officials acknowledge it may not be enough given the extreme conditions.

“

This represents 120,000 liters of water. But even that may not be enough. Few people truly grasp the severity of the situation, due to the sand, the heat, and the extreme temperatures.

Serbia is experiencing a new heatwave with temperatures reaching around 42°C, creating "extreme conditions" that favor fire ignition and spread, according to the meteorological institute. The country is also dealing with about twenty other fires nationwide, while neighboring Bosnia is also battling several forest fires.

“

Extreme conditions, favoring the outbreak and spread of fires.