Wildfires in Italy prompt cross-border firefighting efforts

Wildfires continue to rage in the Friaul-Julisch Venetien region of Italy, specifically near Tolmezzo, Illegio, and Chiusaforte. The fires have caused smoke to drift into the Gailtal region of Austria.

To combat the flames, firefighting aircraft from Italy and Slovenia have been operating in the area. On Sunday, Italian firefighting planes were scheduled to collect water from Weissensee in Carinthia, Austria, between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. To ensure safety during these operations, a section of the lake between Mühlzipf and Paterzipf was closed to swimmers, boats, and SUPs.

Carinthian Governor Daniel Fellner emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation in the Alpen-Adria region, stating that “readiness for aid and deployment in disaster situations knows no borders.” Local authorities, including the police, fire department, and water rescue services, are working closely with the municipality and district administration to coordinate the water collection efforts.