# Forest fires in North Macedonia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/forest-fires-in-north-macedonia
> Updated: 2026-08-31T17:27:42.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

North Macedonia has experienced significant forest fires in late August 2026. An initial large blaze in a pine forest near the village of Crnik, in the Pehčevo Municipality, required an emergency response from local firefighters, forestry workers, and volunteers. Aerial support via helicopters was deployed to help localize the fire, which officials aimed to extinguish following its containment near the Bulgarian border.

Subsequently, a major fire at the foot of Mount Pelister, affecting black and white pine forests, was brought under control after a 72-hour intensive operation. National Park Pelister described the blaze as “one of the most complex of the season” due to difficult terrain and weather. Containment efforts involved the army, local firefighting teams from Bitola and Resen, and the use of machinery to create firebreaks. While the Pelister fire was contained, other active wildfires were reported in the municipalities of Vrapčište, Bogovinje, Štip, and Struga.

## Claims

- The fire occurred in a forest dominated by black and white pine. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The firefighting operation lasted 72 hours. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The operation involved coordination between the Directorate for Protection and Rescue, army units, and local volunteers. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The major forest fire at the foot of Mount Pelister is under full control. (single source)
- An army helicopter was used to drop three tons of water on critical points. (single source)
- Machinery from Bechtel and Enka helped create a firebreak. (single source)
- Other active fires remain in the municipalities of Vrapčište, Bogovinje, Štip, and Struga. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Pelister National Park forest fire brought under control

Authorities have brought a major forest fire at Mount Pelister in North Macedonia under control after a 72-hour battle involving army helicopters and specialized firefighting teams.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pelister-national-park-forest-fire-brought-under-control

### 2026-08-23: Forest fire near Crnik, Pehčevo, brought under control

A large pine forest fire near Crnik, Pehčevo, has been brought under control by local firefighters, volunteers, and aerial support, though smoke remains visible.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/forest-fire-near-crnik-pehevo-brought-under-control

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Cite as: Forest fires in North Macedonia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/forest-fires-in-north-macedonia