Massive Fire in Gargano Forces Tourists to Evacuate on Coast Guard Vessels as Flames Approach Residential Areas

A large wildfire has broken out on the Gargano Peninsula, in the rural and outlying areas of the municipality of Peschici, in the province of Foggia, near the Bay of Manaccora.

The fire has spread to the coastal areas of Peschici and Vieste, two popular summer destinations. Holidaymakers were evacuated from the beaches aboard Coast Guard vessels, while local media report that there have been no injuries or fatalities.

Two Canadair firefighting aircraft and civil protection forces have been deployed in operations to bring the blaze under control.

The dense smoke rising from the fire can be seen from dozens of kilometres off the coast.

The blaze has now also reached the coast of Lower Molise, specifically the area bordering Gargano. Tourists have been evacuated from campsites and tourist facilities near the beach, while 21 elderly residents of a care home have been transferred to the church and parish premises.

Fanned by high temperatures and strong southwesterly winds, the flames have scorched natural vegetation and advanced rapidly towards several residential communities and tourist areas. Towering columns of smoke have also disrupted road and rail traffic.