A large fire that has been burning since Saturday afternoon between Blato and Smokvice on Korčula has been brought under control, with firefighters now tackling the edges of the burnt area to prevent the flames from reigniting. Smoke is still rising in patches across the scene.
County Fire Commander Stjepan Simović assessed the situation as more favourable than the previous day, but warned that complacency is not an option given the vast area affected. "The fire is being extinguished and the edges are being secured. It looks better, but we are cautious because it is a large area," Simović said, as reported by Dalmacija Danas.
Two air tankers assisted the firefighters from the air, and a third has been announced, scheduled to stand by at the Dubrovnik airport until nightfall in case of renewed activity. Rain partially slowed the spread of the fire during the night.
Fire Commander Tucaković confirmed the fire was under control after inspecting the site by helicopter. "There is still some smoking, but the situation is good," he told Jutarnji list, adding that other fires along the Croatian coast were also under control. According to him, the blaze on Korčula was caused by a thunderstorm.
Two firefighters were injured during the two-day suppression operation: both suffered broken legs, were treated, and are recovering. A total of 270 firefighters with 72 vehicles were deployed, including fresh reinforcements that arrived from continental Croatia during the night and morning, with around 220 personnel on site during the day.
The state road between Vela Luka and Korčula is open to traffic, but the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) advises drivers to avoid it if possible due to the proximity of the fire.
