An area of more than five hectares of soft pine was engulfed by flames in Vlora’s Soda Forest, in an episode that once again highlighted the fragility of protecting forest areas in the face of high temperatures and strong winds. According to the official version, the main blaze has been brought under control, but the risk of reignition remains present.
The flames spread quickly through Soda Forest
The fire broke out on Sunday afternoon in Soda Forest and grew to large proportions, affecting a considerable area of soft pine.
Strong wind and high temperatures fueled the spread of the flames, while the surrounding area was placed at risk for several hours.
Hours-long intervention by firefighters, residents and local businesses
Vlora firefighting forces responded on the ground with the means at their disposal, while local residents, as well as owners and employees of restaurants near the forest, also joined efforts to confront the flames.
For more than three hours, teams worked without interruption, first to isolate the fire and then to extinguish the main blaze.
Police, Municipality and FNSH involved in the operation
The operation also involved forces from Vlora Police, municipal structures and officers from the Fier FNSH.
According to authorities, these structures monitored the situation and ensured safety in the area during the intervention.
Main blaze under control, but not without risk
According to the official announcement, the main blaze has been brought under control and is being extinguished, while firefighters continue to remain on the ground.
The reason is the possibility of the fire reactivating, as strong wind could reignite hotspots left in the burned area.
The preliminary toll points to considerable environmental damage in one of Vlora’s well-known areas.
The incident once again raises questions about preventive preparedness and timely response to fires that, at the height of summer, regularly become a threat to forests and natural spaces.