Wildfire engulfs homes in Omiš, Croatia; residents and tourists evacuated

A fierce wildfire is raging near the popular tourist town of Omiš in Croatia, destroying numerous homes and prompting the evacuation of residents and visitors. The fire, which broke out in the Lokva Rogoznica settlement, has spread rapidly towards Omiš, threatening properties on two fronts: from above the town and towards the coast and beaches.

Firefighting efforts are severely challenged by strong, unpredictable winds that are fanning the flames and accelerating their spread. "The fire is spreading. The wind is not in our favor at all. Many houses have burned down, and the fire is at the doorstep of many more buildings," described Omiš Deputy Mayor Ivan Pivčević the critical situation to Slobodna Dalmacija.

Residents and tourists are fleeing the affected areas, creating significant traffic congestion in and around Omiš. To facilitate the evacuation, boats from the port authority are transporting people from threatened zones to safety. Some evacuees are being housed in the local Ribnjak sports hall. The Adriatic highway has also been impacted, with a section closed due to the fire, and traffic towards Makarska is prohibited. The Omiš bypass and a state road between Naklice and Omiš have also been closed preventatively.

Fire crews from the wider region, including mainland Croatia, have been deployed to combat the blaze. Despite the challenging conditions and the ongoing danger, people are expressing gratitude on social media for the firefighters' dedicated efforts as they battle the inferno while residents evacuate their homes.

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The fire is spreading. The wind is not in our favor at all. Many houses have burned down, and the fire is at the doorstep of many more buildings.