Italy: Emergency crews responding to wildfire near Terracina, Latina Province, as of Aug. 12

Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire near Terracina in Latina Province as of Aug. 12. The fire broke out in the Monte Leone area Aug. 11 and was originally brought largely under control before strong winds reignited the flames and the rapid growth continued after aerial firefighting operations had to be suspended during the night Aug. 11-12. Authorities have evacuated several homes in the San Silviano and Campo Lungo areas as the fire is threatening homes. A sports hall at a school in San Silviano has been established as an emergency shelter for evacuated residents. The fire has broken out amid an ongoing heatwave in the region, and further fire growth is possible over the coming hours and days.

The fire could cause power outages and lingering disruptions to transport and business in the area. The status of roads can change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close additional routes within the fire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and response operations needs. Traffic disruptions are also likely during reentry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Smoke from the fire may also noticeably worsen air quality in the area over the short term. Smoke from fires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with preexisting respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).