Sicily forest fires intensify as firefighting crews battle multiple blazes

Forest fires broke out on Sicily’s western and southern slopes, including a blaze between the towns of Montelepre and Sagana that started on the evening of 10 July under unknown circumstances. Ground crews used fire‑break vehicles while helicopters and Canadair aircraft provided aerial support at dawn. Residents in high‑risk areas of Sagana were evacuated as the fire spread with the wind.

Additional fires were reported near the cities of Trapani and Agrigento, with local fire units responding to at least three separate hotspots. In northern Italy, the Piedmont region’s alpine fires, which have been burning since 5 July, are being brought under control thanks to recent rainfall, according to the national fire service.

Overall, Italian authorities continue to deploy both ground and air resources across the affected regions to contain the flames and protect communities.