A forest fire burning across approximately 27 hectares in Nové Vrbno on the Opava region has forced officials to declare the third of four fire alarm levels, according to local emergency services. High temperatures and strong winds are actively complicating firefighting efforts, pushing flames into an adjacent stubble field. Approximately 150 firefighters operated at the scene throughout the day, though the fire remains uncontained as night operations begin.
Emergency Response Operations and Specialised Equipment in Nové Vrbno
The settlement of Nové Vrbno, which forms part of Větřkovic, first reported the fire around 12:45, drawing up to 30 firefighting units to the area. According to Moravian-Silesian fire spokesperson Kamila Langerová, hasební práce will continue throughout the night with 15 units deployed on-site. Aerial support was deployed alongside ground crews, including a Police of the Czech Republic aviation service helicopter equipped with a 900-liter bambivak and a BlackHawk helicopter from Mělníka carrying a 3,450-liter bambivak. Both aircraft drew water from the Vítkovský Balaton water body and extended their operations until 21:00, exceeding initial schedules.
Did You Know? The rescue unit from Hlučín in the Opava region dispatched two specialised cisterns to the scene holding 21 tisíci litry and 12 tisíci litry of firefighting water, as noted by Miroslav Kučera of the Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic.
Simultaneous Wildfires Across Pardubice and Plzeň Regions
Emergency crews are simultaneously battling separate forest and field fires across multiple regions in the Czech Republic. In the Svitavsko area at Městečko Trnávka, firefighters declared a second-level alert for a three-hectare forest fire in the Ludvíkov local part, where nine units are deployed. Fire service spokesperson Lucie Pipiš confirmed that crews have localized a portion of the affected area and are currently working on the second section. One firefighter sustained a non-serious hand injury on-site and continues working.
Meanwhile, the Plzeň Region reported 16 fires in the wild as of 18:30 on Thursday, according to regional fire spokesperson Petr Poncar. Prompted by the ongoing drought and high temperatures, the region announced a ban on making fires starting Friday, July 31.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the third-level alarm in Nové Vrbno?
The alarm was triggered by a forest fire covering approximately 27 hectares, with high temperatures and strong winds driving the flames onto a nearby stubble field.
How long will firefighting operations continue?
According to fire service spokespeople, hasební práce will continue through the night with 15 units remaining deployed at the scene.
Are open flames restricted in affected areas?
Yes, following prolonged drought and high temperatures, the Plzeň Region instituted a ban on making fires starting July 31 based on recommendations from firefighters.
What measures should local communities take to prevent further field and forest fires during periods of prolonged drought?