Wildfire in Pirin Mountain: Situation Update

Firefighters, forestry workers, and military personnel continue to battle a wildfire in the Pirin Mountain, with over 150 people on the ground. Despite a calm situation on July 30, Commissioner Valentin Vasilev warns that the wind could quickly reignite the fire, and the situation remains precarious. Firefighting efforts are focused on two main fire sources, with 15 employees from Pirin National Park, 70 firefighters, and 50 forestry workers from the region working tirelessly to contain the blaze.

Key Takeaways:

• The wildfire in Pirin Mountain has been ongoing since July 25, with 5 people evacuated from the villa zone above Ilindentsi village.
• Regional Governor Georgi Dinev activated the BG-ALERT system for emergency evacuation on July 29, resulting in the evacuation of over 400 people.
• Volunteers are needed to assist in firefighting efforts, with around 20 military personnel, 15 employees from Pirin National Park, and 70 firefighters already on the ground.
• Commissioner Vasilev emphasizes that the situation remains precarious, with no crown fire activity but potential hotspots reigniting in windy conditions.
• Director of the forestry enterprise in Sandanski, Simeon Efremov, notes that while the situation has calmed down, the fire is not yet under control, and firebreaks are being made to prevent further spread.
• Two helicopters are assisting in efforts to contain the wildfire.

Statistics:

• Over 150 people are on the ground fighting the wildfire.
• 15 employees from Pirin National Park, 70 firefighters, 50 forestry workers from the region, and around 20 military personnel are participating in firefighting efforts.
• 5 people were evacuated from the villa zone above Ilindentsi village on July 25.
• Over 400 people were evacuated due to the escalating fire situation on July 29.
• The wildfire near Ilindentsi broke out on July 25 at around 8:42 pm.
• Firefighting efforts are focused on two main fire sources: above Ilindentsi in Strumyani Municipality and above the village of Ploski in Sandanski Municipality.

Sources:

• BTA: Commissioner Valentin Vasilev's statement to BTA on July 30.
• Simeon Efremov, director of the forestry enterprise in Sandanski, speaking with BTA on July 30.
• The National Association of Volunteers in Bulgaria's Facebook post on Thursday, announcing the need for volunteers in the Ilindentsi fire.
• Commissioner Vasilev's comments on the BG-ALERT system activation and evacuation of over 400 people.