Wildfire destroys five hectares on Santa Maria Island

A significant wildfire swept across Santa Maria Island in the La Maddalena archipelago on September 10, destroying approximately five hectares of dense Mediterranean scrubland. The fire, which began in the late afternoon, was driven by strong winds that pushed flames toward the coast, causing heavy environmental damage to the fragile ecosystem of the national park.

Emergency response efforts involved a complex coordination of aerial and maritime resources. The regional firefighting machine deployed three helicopters—including a Super Puma—and a Canadair aircraft. Because the island lacks road access, ground teams were transported by sea via Coast Guard patrol boats, supported by units from the Carabinieri, Financial Police, and the Forestry Corps.

While the fire approached residential areas, no buildings were reached and no injuries were reported. Some residents chose to evacuate their homes voluntarily as a precaution. Local authorities, including Mayor Fabio Lai, coordinated civil protection measures. Investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the blaze, with officials noting that the ignition point was near residential properties.