Approximately 1,000 tourists were evacuated on Wednesday after a wildfire erupted in the southern Italian region of Puglia, according to the local fire service.
Three Canadair water bombers and a helicopter were deployed to combat the blaze in a wooded coastal area in the Gargano sub-region. “The fire is being tackled from the land and the air,” a fire service spokesman told AFP, confirming the evacuation of around 1,000 tourists.
Reports indicate that tourists from a complex near the bay of San Felice were among those evacuated. Puglia is renowned for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and distinctive architecture, drawing visitors from around the globe. The affected area is part of the Gargano National Park, a popular tourist destination.
“The situation is critical,” Giuseppe Nobiletti, the mayor of nearby Vieste, told reporters earlier, according to the Corriere della Sera newspaper. He expressed concern that the strong winds were driving the flames towards the tourist complex.
Italy has experienced numerous fires in recent weeks, particularly in the southern regions and on the islands, following prolonged periods of hot weather. Last week, two firefighters lost their lives while battling a blaze near Matera in the neighboring Basilicata region.
Authorities are urging residents and tourists to remain vigilant and adhere to safety instructions as firefighting efforts continue.
