Angellov: Several Hotspots Remain Active on Mount Kitka, Fire Expected to Be Brought Under Control by Tomorrow

Several fire hotspots remain active on Mount Kitka, while the Air Tractors of the Directorate for Protection and Rescue (DPR) have joined the aerial firefighting operation.

Skopje firefighters, DPR teams and employees of the Public Enterprise “National Forests” are operating on the ground. DPR Director Stojanche Angellov said that Pinzgauer vehicles are also at the scene and will be deployed as soon as the flames emerge from the dense forest and spread toward grass-covered areas.

According to Angellov, the fire is expected to be brought partially under control over the course of today and tomorrow.

“We are using everything at our disposal to control this large fire, which has engulfed a vast area. I believe that over the course of today and tomorrow, we will manage to bring it partially under control,” he said in a video published this afternoon.

Angellov also announced that more than 20 outdoor fires had been recorded today and that their intensity was not diminishing.

“There are many irresponsible people who accidentally cause fires. Even more concerning is the fact that there are malicious individuals who deliberately start fires for personal gain or revenge, even though they know that their actions could cost someone their life,” Angellov said.

Earlier, the DPR director urged citizens to report any suspicious activity. The appeal was directed in particular at residents at the foot of Mount Kitka, specifically in the area behind Drachevo, within the Municipality of Studenichani.