Nagy-Fátra mountains hit by fire in protected Skalná Alpa zone

A fire has broken out in the central part of the Nagy-Fátra mountains, specifically in the area between Smrekovica and Skalná Alpa. The blaze is burning approximately 3,000 square meters of land in difficult-to-reach terrain.

Authorities believe the fire may have been caused by negligence, as traces of fire-making were discovered below the Skalná Alpa lookout. The affected area is part of a high-level nature protection zone of European significance, including a bird protection area characterized by mountain forests and dwarf pine.

Due to the incident, railway traffic has been temporarily restricted. Officials have urged tourists to avoid the area and strictly adhere to fire safety regulations during this period of increased fire risk.