Fires threaten split as heatwave grips Adriatic coast
Firefighters are battling a blaze near the Croatian city of Split. The fire is encroaching on this popular resort, which also broke out during the night. More disturbing photos and videos are surfacing online. The situation is very serious, especially with another heatwave approaching the Adriatic coast.
Croatia has been fighting fires for over a month, with blazes appearing near popular resorts.
A few days ago, tourists were fleeing from Split in panic as the fire started approaching the first buildings on the city's outskirts.
The situation remains dangerous in the village of Žrnovnica. According to the Dalmacija Danas portal, another fire was reported on Sunday afternoon near this village, several miles from Split.
Eighty firefighters were battling the blaze, with planes also used in the operation.
This fight has been ongoing since last week. The fire broke out after an intense storm that hit the southern regions of Croatia. At its peak, several hundred firefighters were operating near the village.
Croatia the hottest in years
The fire consuming this part of Europe is linked to a scorching and dry summer. Moreover, during the first eight months of this year, Croatia recorded above-average high temperatures, according to data from the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ).
And that's not all. According to meteorologists, another heatwave is soon to hit the Adriatic coast.
In Rijeka, Split, and Dubrovnik, an orange weather alert is in effect for that day.
