Fire in Croatia's Omiš: around 300 Czech tourists evacuated

A major wildfire has broken out in the Croatian coastal town of Omiš, forcing the evacuation of around three hundred Czech tourists. The news was confirmed by Czech Foreign Ministry spokesman Adam Čorgo in comments to the ČTK news agency.

The fire started near the village of Lokva Rogoznica and, driven by strong winds, spread through vegetation above Omiš, reaching almost to the town centre. Flames threatened dozens of residential and non-residential buildings, forcing the evacuation of some local residents and holidaymakers.

What we know about the injured

According to the Czech Foreign Ministry, none of the evacuated Czechs have been killed or seriously injured. However, Croatian media report that at least 36 people in total have been injured by the fire, with 14 hospitalised and seven suffering severe burns. Early reports suggested four Canadians were among the injured, but this has not been confirmed.

A Czech consul is on the ground, staying in contact with local authorities and emergency services. Czech summer police patrols stationed at the evacuation centres are also assisting fellow citizens. On Friday, the consular team will be reinforced by an additional officer sent from Zagreb.

Fire has destroyed up to a thousand hectares

160 firefighters, including crews of specialised firefighting aircraft, are battling the blaze. According to eyewitnesses, the fire has caused enormous material damage — dozens of cars and homes have burned down. Driven by strong winds, the flames have spread across an area of roughly 900–1,000 hectares.

Witnesses report hearing gas cylinders exploding inside burning houses, along with the wail of fire engine, ambulance and police sirens. Most of Omiš has been left without electricity.

Mass evacuation and help from Czech police

Hundreds of people have already fled the danger zone, with some tourists escaping by boat, catamaran or other small vessels. The organised evacuation is being carried out through the Ribnjak sports hall in Omiš, from where people are being bussed to the Gripe sports centre in Split. According to Omiš fire chief Slavko Tucaković, foreigners make up the majority of those evacuated.

Czech police officers are also working in the disaster area, patrolling the town alongside their Croatian counterparts. Czech police say they are actively helping with the evacuation and assisting not only Czech tourists. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković is due to visit the site of the fire on Friday.

Source: novinky.cz