In Albania, the fire situation is now dramatic as the country is engulfed in flames from north to south.
According to the latest figures from the Ministry of Defence, 50 fire outbreaks have been identified in the last 24 hours alone, of which 19 remain active.
The most critical situation is recorded in the prefecture of Vlora, particularly in the municipalities of Finiki and Delvinos, in the Greek minority villages.
In the area of Delvinos, the fire has come dangerously close to the oil rigs, threatening a disaster of incalculable proportions. Authorities have proceeded with mass evacuations of residents from the higher districts. The fire front has assumed huge proportions and is becoming one of the most serious incidents in the region in recent years.
The night firefighting operation is being carried out under extremely difficult conditions, as air assistance is not possible until sunrise. Early reports indicate possible destruction of homes; however, an assessment of damage is impossible at this time due to dense smoke and limited access in several areas.
Dozens of firefighters and military forces are operating in the area, trying to contain the flames before they spread to new areas. Of particular concern is the proximity of the front to the local hospital. To avoid the risk of an explosion, technical crews dismantled and removed the oxygen supply system. Meanwhile, all patients have been moved to safe areas, while medical and nursing staff remain on full alert.
The situation is further complicated by strong winds blowing towards the city centre, encouraging the fire to spread and increasing the danger to residents. Dozens of families are fleeing their homes in haste, with authorities making urgent appeals for strict adherence to evacuation and safety instructions.
Firefighting forces are expected to be reinforced in the early hours of the morning in the hope that air support will be instrumental in containing the devastating fire.
The fire situation remains dramatic in several areas of Albania, including Grams, Polican, Tepeleni, Trojans and elsewhere.
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