Skopje covered in smoke from Zheden and Kitka wildfires

Skopje has been covered in thick smoke and a strong smell of burning due to active wildfires on the Zheden and Kitka mountains. Stojče Angelov, Director of the Crisis Management Center, confirmed via helicopter reconnaissance that a significant portion of the smoke originates from the Zheden fire near the village of Bojane.

The Zheden fire, which has been active for several days, has been brought under control following heavy intervention by firefighters from Tetovo and Skopje. Approximately 90% of the affected area has been extinguished, preventing the flames from reaching forests, vineyards, and orchards.

Simultaneously, crews continue to battle the fire on Mount Kitka, which is spreading across the municipalities of Studeničani and Zeleničani, affecting areas such as Morane, Vrtekica, and Ramni Gaber. Air currents are carrying smoke from both locations into the Skopje valley, reducing visibility and causing varying intensities of smoke throughout the city.