Croatia: Emergency crews working to extinguish wildfire near Grebastica, Sibenik-Knin County, as of late July 13

Event

Emergency crews are working to extinguish a wildfire burning near Grebastica, Sibenik-Knin County, as of late July 13. Authorities first received a report of the blaze at around 11:11. The fire has since burned approximately 600 hectares (1,483 acres) and an unspecified number of residential properties in addition to injuring at least three people. Authorities have deployed more than 150 firefighters as well as at least three aircraft to combat the fire. The blaze has also prompted the evacuations of multiple local families, and police earlier asked those in the vicinity of the blaze to move their cars away from and leave the area. The fire was no longer spreading and was not threatening to damage additional buildings as of 19:30. Officials did not immediately report the cause of the fire.

Authorities have reported power outages in the Grebastica area and the closure of the Adriatic highway between Zaboric and Bila in connection with the fire. Additionally, officials have opened accommodations for displaced residents in Sibenik. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions.

Transport
The wildfire may cause additional transport disruptions in the area. The status of nearby roads may change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close further routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift any evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could cause or exacerbate traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed authorities' instructions, including any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will almost certainly cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages. Monitor local news sources for further information.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.