Poland: Wildfire spreads across over 300 hectares in Mazovian region PHOTO

A large forest fire is continuing to spread across the Mazovian region of Poland, affecting the Wołomin and Mińsk counties and burning more than 300 hectares of land, according to RMF24.

The fire initially broke out on the afternoon of May 28, first affecting around 5 hectares of forest, but rapidly expanded. By nightfall, the burned area had reached 100 hectares, and by May 29, it had exceeded 300 hectares.

Around 800 firefighters, more than 100 pieces of equipment, and units from both volunteer and state fire services are involved in the operation. Four aircraft from the forestry service and a police Black Hawk helicopter are being used to drop water, while around 100 territorial defence soldiers and hundreds of police officers have also been deployed.

According to emergency services, the fire initially spread as a crown fire before turning into a ground fire. Officials said its intensity has now decreased due to a lack of strong winds.

Forty-two people from 20 buildings have been evacuated. Some residents were accommodated in a school in Stanisławów, while others stayed with relatives. No injuries have been reported.

Authorities estimate that extinguishing the fire may take up to four days, warning that hot and windy weather in the coming days could further complicate firefighting efforts.