TIRANA, August 17 – Albania reported 33 wildfires over the past 24 hours. Eight remain active. Five others are under monitoring. The Ministry of Defence says 535 operational personnel and 51 firefighting vehicles are involved. The Armed Forces have deployed 120 personnel, 2 helicopters and 2 Air Tractor aircraft.

In Dajti Mountain, east of Tirana, firefighters, protected-area staff and Armed Forces personnel continue operations. Authorities report no risk to populated areas. In Gurë-Lura, Dibër Municipality, northeastern Albania, 115 municipal personnel, 13 police officers, 11 protected-area staff, 14 firefighters, 7 volunteers and 50 Armed Forces personnel are working. Two Air Tractor aircraft support the operation. Firebreaks have limited the spread towards homes.

Meanwhile, crews continue work in Qafë Helmës and Bruç, in Bulqiza Municipality, northeastern Albania. The fire has stopped on the Bulqiza side. One active area remains towards Selishta, Dibë Municipality. Authorities report no risk to homes.

In Lufaj, Mirdita Municipality, northern Albania, crews continue operations. An Air Force helicopter supports them. In Fushë-Lajë, Puka Municipality, northern Albania, the fire has low intensity. It does not threaten populated areas. Authorities are also monitoring Rrjoll, in Lezha Municipality on Albania’s northern Adriatic coast. They are using drones as part of the monitoring. Authorities report no risk to homes.

The National Civil Protection Agency continues to coordinate operations nationwide.

/a.p./