Italy battles mountain wildfires in Verbicaro and Valsesia

A wildfire broke out on July 30, 2026 in the mountain area of Verbicaro, Italy, burning vegetation and nearby vineyards. Two Canadair aircraft were dispatched, and Mayor Felice Spingola said the fire was brought under control, though he noted damage to the landscape.

In the neighboring Valsesia region, multiple forest fires have been reported, with one Canadair already operating and another en route to the Cravagliana area. Local authorities, including Francesco Pietrasanta, president of the Union of Municipalities of Valsesia, warned that high temperatures and drought increase the risk of rapid spread. Regional fire prevention orders remain in force, banning open flames within 100 metres of forests and prohibiting fireworks and discarded cigarettes. Firefighters and helicopter units continue monitoring and extinguishing remaining hotspots.