A vast fire is burning on Italy's Monte Faeta, between the provinces of Pisa and Lucca, where flames continue to spread, fuelled by strong winds.
The blaze has already destroyed about 800 hectares of woodland between Santa Maria del Giudice, Asciano and San Giuliano Terme. As fires are active in several areas, it has been particularly difficult to contain.
Dozens of forest fire-fighting teams, together with the fire brigade, worked through the night to contain the fires, supported by drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras to monitor the outbreaks. Since the early hours of the morning, aerial interventions have been strengthened: at least three Canadairs are in action, flanked by helicopters from the regional fleet, engaged in continuous water launches.
Windy weather conditions fuel the flames
Weather conditions remain critical: the sustained wind continues to fuel the flames and hinder operations, encouraging the re-ignition of new outbreaks.
For safety reasons, the evacuation of about 3,000 people has been ordered, especially in the areas of Asciano and San Giuliano Terme. The civil protection system was activated to assist evacuees, with particular attention to the most vulnerable people.
Roadblocks have also been set up in the affected areas to avoid obstructing rescue vehicles and guarantee the safety of operations.
Extinguishing activities continue unabated and the next few hours will be decisive: much will depend on the intensity of the wind and the effectiveness of the coordinated intervention between ground teams and aerial means.
