The forest fire near Novorossiysk, Russia, has escalated dramatically since July 14, engulfing three recreational bases and threatening nearby villages. As of the latest reports, the fire has grown to cover over 51 hectares, with strong winds severely complicating firefighting efforts.The blaze has spread to the ‘Moryak’, ‘Romantic’, and ‘Fregat’ (also referred to as ‘Frigate’) recreational bases. At the ‘Romantic’ base alone, 11 buildings have been engulfed by the flames. The fire is now moving towards the Durso village, prompting concerns about potential further evacuations.Authorities have already evacuated hundreds of people from the affected areas. Reports vary, but between 176 and 500 people, including 48 to 130 children, have been relocated to safety. In response to the escalating situation, a state of emergency has been declared in Novorossiysk.The firefighting operation has mobilized substantial resources. Over 300 personnel, including MChS (Ministry of Emergency Situations) specialists, firefighters, Cossacks, and volunteers, are working to contain the blaze. They are supported by at least 84 units of equipment and air support, with helicopters having dropped 75 tons of water on the flames.Despite these efforts, the fire continues to spread rapidly due to strong winds, which have been a major factor in its expansion. The operational headquarters, led by Alexander Nesterenko, the Kuban Governor’s representative, is coordinating the response and considering further measures, including potential evacuation of the Durso village if the fire cannot be localized.As the situation remains critical, additional forces have been dispatched to the area. The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations has sent an airmobile group consisting of 50 rescuers and seven units of equipment to reinforce the firefighting efforts.
Key points
- The forest fire near Novorossiysk has spread to three recreational bases, covering over 51 hectares.
- Hundreds of people, including children, have been evacuated, and a state of emergency has been declared.
- Over 300 personnel and substantial equipment, including air support, are involved in firefighting efforts.
- Strong winds are complicating the firefighting operation, and the fire threatens to spread to nearby villages.
Contradictions👾There are varying reports on the number of people evacuated, ranging from 176 to 500, including different numbers of children evacuated.
👾Some sources refer to the affected base as ‘Fregat’, while others call it ‘Frigate’, which may cause confusion.
