Devastating fire on Croatia’s Brač island: Approximately 500 people were evacuated

Approximately 500 people were evacuated overnight from Saturday to Sunday from the Croatian island of Brač, after a vegetation fire that broke out on Thursday destroyed around 3,500 hectares and approached populated areas and tourist zones.

The fire remained active, but the situation improved significantly on Sunday morning after a difficult night for firefighters. Two people were injured, one of them seriously. The flames, fueled by strong winds, prompted the authorities to issue alerts for residents and tourists in Milna and the nearby bays.

Most of the evacuees were transported by boats belonging to the authorities, maritime police, and local residents. Among them were 40 tourists from Hungary. Approximately 400 tourists and employees of a tourist complex were also evacuated, with damage reported to infrastructure in a wooded area.

More than 220 firefighters, supported by 69 vehicles, worked overnight. Four Canadair CL-415 aircraft were also deployed in the operations, while additional teams were sent later in support.