Wildfire near Makazi threatens Pelister National Park
Fire that began near Makazi has spread toward Pelister and crews from the park, Resen and Bitola are battling the flames.
A large wildfire broke out this afternoon in the surroundings of the village of Makazi in the Resen region, and authorities say the flames are moving toward Pelister Mountain.
Stojanche Angelov, director of the Directorate for Protection and Rescue, told reporters that the fire is advancing in the direction of Pelister. Officials have not yet released information on the cause or on any material damage.
Park authorities reported that the blaze started before 3 p.m. on the side facing Prespa and has already crossed into the park's boundary area.
Firefighting crews working to contain the blaze
"At the moment the fire has entered the National Park between the foothills of Vrtushka Peak and Malachuka Peak. Teams from National Park Pelister, in cooperation with firefighting teams from Resen and Bitola, are operating on the ground to localize the fire," the national park said.
Crews from the park are coordinating with municipal fire teams from Resen and Bitola to try to stop the advance, officials said. The response includes on-the-ground personnel focused on containment along the slopes and foothills nearest the initial ignition point.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have not issued an evacuation notice. Emergency services remain on alert as operations continue through the evening.
Photo: kolazh / NP
