Wildfires in Southern Italy Threaten Forests and Prompt Evacuations

A large wildfire that burned across the hills between Peschici and Vieste on the Gargano peninsula was brought under control late on Tuesday. Firefighters used four Canadair aircraft, two helicopters, ground crews, volunteers and reinforcements from Campania. Mayor Luigi D'Arenzo said there were no injuries or damage to homes and hotels, but the blaze destroyed hectares of pine and Mediterranean maquis forest.

In Marina di Maratea, Basilicata, a separate fire forced the precautionary evacuation of 58 residents. Twenty‑eight fire brigade units, three Canadair planes, a regional helicopter and ground teams combated the blaze, which is now under control. Local police, Carabinieri forest units and civil‑protection volunteers also assisted the operation.