Shocking footage shows a popular “Mamma Mia” island ablaze as dry ground and wind hamper firefighting efforts.
The wildfire broke out in an open area on the Croatian island of Vis at around 11pm yesterday (28 June).
All available fire services on the island were deployed to the scene in the Podhumlje area near Komiža.
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Although there was no strong wind at the time, the fire spread rapidly within the first hour due to extremely dry ground and the “Burin” thermal night breeze.
Around 70 local firefighters are currently tackling the blaze, with assistance from four aircraft and reinforcements from the mainland.
The fire is still not under control, and a large area has been affected, although the situation is significantly better than last night, according to local media reports.
Eight vehicles and 34 firefighters were due to depart for Vis from Split at 11am today (29 June) as reinforcements.
County Fire Commander Ivan Kovačević told local media the fire came close to several houses during the night, but ground forces managed to stop it.
There is currently no major threat to residents or their homes, as reported by Need To Know.
Vis is one of the best-known Croatian islands, although it is quieter and less commercial than the likes of Hvar or Brač.
For decades, it was a military zone of the former Yugoslavia, meaning it was long closed to foreign tourists and has therefore preserved its authentic character.
In 2017, the musical comedy “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” was filmed on Vis, with the island representing the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi.
The film – the sequel to “Mamma Mia!” – starred Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Pierce Brosnan, and helped bring the island further international attention.
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