WILDFIRE RAGING IN BULGARIA’S REGION OF KARDZHALI

A massive wildfire is burning in the area between the villages of Ahriyansko and Ardino in the Soputbh Bulgarian region of Kardzhali. The blaze has already engulfed about 1,000 decares of pine forest. Two villages in the area are prepared for evacuation if it becomes necessary.

Firefighting teams are trying to suppress the wildfire, but the strong wind makes it difficult.

The danger for the populated areas has passed, the Mayor of Ardino said. However, the flames continue to spread, the BNT reporter Krasimir Angelov informed.

It is not known in which direction the wind will blow. The risk for the residents of the villages may occur again, he said.

Two people have been detained by the local police on suspicions for causing the fire. Currently, they are being interviewed.

According to local residents, there were loggers in the area, of Roma origin, who lived in improvised camps, cooked over open fire and that’s probably what started it.