HVZ Warns: High Fire Risk in These Regions
Despite yesterday's rain, conditions conducive to fires persist. Citizens and tourists urged to exercise increased caution.
Despite yesterday's rain, conditions conducive to fires persist. Citizens and tourists urged to exercise increased caution.
The Croatian Firefighting Association (HVZ) warned on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, that a high fire risk remains in parts of Croatia. Although yesterday's rain brought some relief in places, conditions favorable for the spread of fire have not ceased, according to a statement.
According to the report from the State Hydrometeorological Institute, a high fire risk is present in the areas of Dubrovnik, Pula, Karlovac, Slavonski Brod, and Osijek. A very high risk has been declared for the rest of Istria, the entire Kvarner region, and most of Dalmatia.
The HVZ therefore calls on citizens and tourists to exercise increased caution, contributing through responsible behavior to the safety of people and property.
The firefighting association warns against discarding cigarette butts and glass in nature and reminds of the ban on lighting any fires outdoors. Grills used at households should not be used during windy conditions, and after use, embers must be completely extinguished.
They also appeal against the use of pyrotechnics, including fireworks and signal flares. If a fire breaks out in a camper or vessel and could spread quickly, it is essential to leave the area immediately if the fire cannot be safely extinguished in its early stages.
Citizens are urged not to interfere with firefighters during operations or to approach fires to observe, photograph, or film. Special caution is advised regarding the use of drones to film fires, as they can endanger the safety of firefighting aircraft.
According to the HVZ, pilot crews will halt flight operations as soon as they spot a drone in the area where they are operating, which will hamper firefighting efforts and endanger lives.
The firefighting association also appeals for keeping yards clean, as this reduces the possibility of fire spreading to nearby structures. If citizens notice a fire, they should immediately contact firefighters at number 193.
