Wildfire Near Toritto Spreads Into Bitonto Forest in Italy

A fire that began in the town of Toritto on the outskirts of Bari has moved eastward toward Quasano and entered the forest area of Bitonto. Strong scirocco winds have driven the flames, complicating containment efforts by the Arif fire service and local firefighters, especially after darkness fell. The mayor of Bitonto visited the scene with local police to monitor the situation.

Authorities expect a detailed assessment of the damage to the woodland and surrounding properties tomorrow morning, after initial firebreaks and protective corridors installed earlier this year were overwhelmed by the gusts. The focus remains on fully extinguishing the blaze and preventing further spread.