Current wildfire situation across the country

Published: Wednesday, 16 July 2025 11:31

 

Over the past 24 hours, 17 wildfire hotspots have been reported across the country, with 4 of them still active. These fires have been identified in the municipalities of Dibër, Bulqizë, Mat, Vau i Dejës, Mallakastër, Lezhë, Mirditë, Gjirokastër, Përmet, Himarë, Finiq, Krujë, Tiranë, Kavajë, Rrogozhinë, and Berat.

Currently active fires:

- Dibër
In the area known as “Liqeni i Luleve” within Lurë National Park, efforts are ongoing to contain a blaze affecting a forested area with pine and meadow vegetation. Approximately 200 hectares of pine and beech forest have been affected. Today, 30 local operational forces and 30 Armed Forces personnel are continuing firefighting operations.

In “Mali i Peladhisë”, Zerqan administrative unit, Bulqizë Municipality, efforts continue to extinguish a reignited fire. So far, about 30 hectares of shrubs and grassland have been burned.

- Shkodër
In the area of “Qafa e Laçit”, Vau i Dejës Municipality, firefighting teams are still battling a fire that broke out on July 15, 2025. Around 25 hectares of oak, beech, shrubs, and grass have been affected.

- Fier
In the village of Drenovë, Qendër Dukas administrative unit, Mallakastër Municipality, firefighting efforts are ongoing. The mountainous terrain and strong winds have made operations difficult. Notably, a gas well is located near the fire site, increasing the potential hazard. So far, an estimated 120 hectares of shrubland and pine forest have been burned, along with more than 1,000 olive trees. Today, 36 local operational forces and 40 Armed Forces personnel are on the ground, supported by a Cougar helicopter.

Most fires have affected shrublands and natural vegetation, with over 381 hectares of land and more than 1,000 olive trees burned so far.

Response Efforts:

A total of 27 fire engines and 288 operational personnel have been deployed in firefighting efforts. Yesterday, the Armed Forces’ Cougar helicopter assisted in aerial operations. As of 06:00 this morning, 70 military personnel and 2 helicopters from the Armed Forces are actively engaged.

Weather Outlook:

According to the Institute of Geosciences, light rain is expected today in the counties of Shkodër and Kukës, while isolated light showers are forecast elsewhere.

Regarding wildfire risk levels, a “HIGH” risk is expected today in the counties of Tiranë, Elbasan, Fier, Berat, Korçë, and Gjirokastër. A “MODERATE” risk applies to all other counties. Some localized high-risk areas are also expected, particularly in the southwestern part of Shkodër County.

Public Advisory:

All Civil Protection structures remain fully mobilized to support communities as needed.
We urge citizens to exercise caution, avoid lighting fires in open areas, and report any signs of wildfire immediately to local firefighting services.