Fire Spreads Through Villages in Ulza as Ground and Aerial Operations Continue

The fire that broke out on Sunday in an oak and scrub forest in the village of Madhe, part of the Ulza Administrative Unit in Mat Municipality, remains out of control.

Strong winds and dry vegetation have fueled the rapid spread of the flames, despite the efforts of personnel from the Fire Service, Forestry Service, Civil Protection and the Mat municipal administration.

On Monday, the fire also spread toward the villages of Madhesh, Trodhën and Lundre, engulfing areas of black pine forest. A cattle farm was threatened by the fire, while several animals scattered by the smoke have yet to be found by shepherds. The flames have also moved close to homes.

The operation has also received aerial support, with a helicopter deployed over the past two days. However, the extensive perimeter of the fire has prevented the flames from being fully contained.

Dozens of personnel have been deployed on the ground, but efforts to tackle the situation remain difficult due to the rugged mountainous terrain and the lack of roads that would allow fire engines to get closer.

The situation is also concerning in the forested area of the village of Sllatinë in Dibër, as well as at the fire sites in the village of Vajkaj, near Bulqizë, and in Qafë Helmes. Meanwhile, the fire in Ballenjë, Martanesh, has been extinguished following rainfall.