North Macedonia battles multiple wildfires and suspected arson

Multiple wildfires have been reported across North Macedonia, with significant incidents occurring in the Strumica and Makedonski Brod regions. In the village of Ilovica, firefighters and local residents successfully extinguished a large fire that had approached residential homes within 100 meters. Risto Manchev, the Mayor of Bosilovo, stated that there are strong indications the Ilovica fire was intentionally set, noting evidence such as cut branches and a lighter found at the scene.

A second major fire broke out in the village of Kolešino, affecting a cardboard processing plant. This blaze was brought under control by 14 firefighters and five vehicles.

In the Makedonski Brod municipality, over 60 personnel, including teams from the Directorate for Protection and Rescue and volunteers, are working to contain a fire near the village of Belica. Officials have assured that the village itself is not currently at risk.

As of mid-day, the Crisis Management Center reported 12 fires registered across the country, with five remaining active. Forecasted rainfall in the western and northwestern mountainous regions is expected to assist in stabilizing the situation.