A violent wildfire swept through residential areas of the Croatian coastline late Thursday and early Friday, injuring 19 people, damaging numerous homes, and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of tourists and local residents, according to local authorities. The blaze started in the tourist locality of Lokva Rogoznica before spreading rapidly under the force of strong winds.
Wildfire Ignites in Lokva Rogoznica and Spreads Toward Omis
The fire broke out during the evening in Lokva Rogoznica, initially consuming pine forests and vegetation before advancing into residential neighborhoods, according to the Croatian Fire Service (HVZ). Fueled by shifting, violent gusts of wind, the flames pushed several kilometers toward Omis, damaging houses, cafés, restaurants, vehicles, and dry- docked boats along the coast.
The HVZ reported that approximately 1,000 evacuated people found shelter overnight in an Omis sports hall operated by the Red Cross, while additional reception centers opened between Split and Makarska.
Emergency Response and Canadair Deployment
Nearly 300 firefighters backed by 93 vehicles deployed to the disaster zone overnight, but crews were quickly overwhelmed by the rapid progression of the flames, according to Tucakovic. Nineteen people sustained injuries, some severe, while several firefighters suffered from smoke inhalation. The coastal road passing through Lokva Rogoznica was closed to traffic as vehicles queued toward Omis.
Four Canadair CL-415 water-bombing aircraft launched operations around 6:00 a.m. on Friday after being grounded overnight due to darkness, the HVZ stated. Commander Tucakovic ordered reinforcements from other regions of the country to assist ground crews holding defensive lines around remaining structures.
Historic Drought and Heatwave Conditions
The disaster unfolds against a backdrop of severe heatwaves affecting Croatia and the broader Balkan region, with record temperatures recently logged in coastal cities such as Split, located roughly 30 kilometers from Lokva Rogoznica. Firefighters managed to contain a separate major blaze on Brac island off the coast of Split earlier on Thursday using aerial support.
The HVZ reports that authorities have recorded roughly 3,900 fires burning nearly 10 000 hectares since the beginning of the year. This marks a 75 percent increase in burned acreage compared to the same period in 2025.
Did you know?
Canadair CL-415 water-bombing aircraft are essential tools for Mediterranean firefighting, but they cannot operate safely during nighttime hours due to visibility limits and turbulent air currents over burning terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Croatian coastal wildfire start?
The fire started in the evening in the tourist locality of Lokva Rogoznica before spreading toward Omis.
How many people were injured in the blaze?
Nineteen people were injured, including several firefighters who suffered from smoke inhalation, according to chief fire commander Slavko Tucakovic.
What resources were deployed to fight the fire?
Nearly 300 firefighters, 93 vehicles, and four Canadair CL-415 water-bombing aircraft were deployed to combat the flames.
How many hectares have burned in Croatia this year?
According to the HVZ, approximately 10 000 hectares have burned across 3,900 fires since the start of the year.
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