Video courtesy: Steven Jewett
A large wildfire sweeps through Italy’s Karst Plateau on Saturday, igniting a massive emergency response and halting train traffic along the critical Venice-Trieste line. The fire breaks out in the early afternoon in the Lisert area, just outside Monfalcone in the northeastern Friuli Venezia Giulia region.
Several firefighting teams from the provincial command of Gorizia are immediately dispatched to combat the blaze, which spreads quickly across the arid and rugged terrain of the Carso. Specialized forest firefighting (AIB) units from across the region arrive on scene to reinforce the efforts.
As the flames continue to spread, the firefighting operation grows in scale. A helicopter, dispatched from Venice, joins the effort, assisting teams on the ground as they battle the fire from multiple fronts. Civil Protection units mobilize additional resources to support containment operations.
The growing emergency forces authorities to suspend rail service between Monfalcone and Bivio d’Aurisina, disrupting a vital section of the Venice-Trieste railway line. The interruption allows emergency crews unfettered access to the affected areas as they work to bring the fire under control.
Authorities report no injuries or significant structural damage yet, but the fire is already taking a toll on the region’s infrastructure and transportation networks. Officials urge residents to remain cautious and stay clear of the affected areas, as the situation remains volatile.
The Karst Plateau, known for its unique limestone formations and dry, wind-swept conditions, is particularly vulnerable to wildfires during the summer months. This latest fire occurs during a period of heightened wildfire activity across southern Europe, exacerbated by prolonged dry spells and rising temperatures.
As of Saturday evening, firefighting efforts continue, with teams working to prevent the flames from spreading further across the plateau. Local officials have yet to estimate the extent of the damage, but the fire’s impact on transportation and local communities is already significant.
