Wildfire above Vržale near Skopje; aerial firefighting planned for tomorrow morning

A wildfire has been reported above the village of Vržale in the vicinity of Skopje. Emergency teams remained at the site overnight while authorities prepared for additional measures to contain the blaze.

Because rugged, inaccessible terrain has hampered full containment by ground crews, officials say an aerial firefighting operation is planned for tomorrow morning, to be carried out depending on weather and conditions on the ground.

Coordination on site

Teams will continue to monitor the fire throughout the night so that any change in activity is detected quickly and met with a coordinated response. The Crisis Management Center emphasised the need for close surveillance until the aerial operation can take place.

Present at the scene are Crisis Management Center director Muhamed Ali and the deputy commander of the Fire Brigade of the City of Skopje, Erol Aliu, who are overseeing the operation and the work of field crews.

Authorities said the timing and feasibility of the air intervention will depend on meteorological conditions and the safety of flying over the affected area.

Photo: press material from the event