Story developing — confirmed facts and preliminary information are separated below.
A Korcula fire has broken out on the Croatian island of Korcula, with a major wildfire erupting Saturday afternoon between the communities of Smokvica and Blato. Croatia Week, the Croatian government, and multiple international outlets have documented the blaze, which has burned 500 hectares of forest and prompted a visit from the Croatian Prime Minister.
Island Blaze
Croatia Week reported on July 11, 2026, that a large wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the area between Smokvica and Blato on the Croatian island of Korcula. The fire drew response from Canadair water-bombing aircraft and ground firefighters, highlighting the scale of the blaze on the densely forested Dalmatian island. Korcula is one of Croatia’s largest Adriatic islands, known for its vineyards, olive groves, and dense pine forests that are particularly vulnerable to summer wildfires.
500 Hectares Burned
The Croatian government’s official website (vlada.gov.hr) confirmed that wildfires broke out on Korcula on Saturday afternoon, burning 500 hectares of forest. A separate fire on the Peljesac peninsula broke out Monday afternoon, burning additional forest area. The 500-hectare figure — equivalent to roughly 1,235 acres — represents a significant wildfire by Croatian standards, where most island fires are contained to smaller areas due to the fragmented terrain and rapid response from Canadair aircraft.
PM Visit
The Croatian Prime Minister visited fire-hit Korcula island, per the government’s official press release, underscoring the national significance of the blaze. The visit included meetings with local fire commanders, municipal officials, and representatives of the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service. The Prime Minister’s presence signals the government’s commitment to supporting the firefighting effort and assessing damage for potential disaster relief.
Broader Croatia Wildfires
The Korcula fire is part of a broader pattern of wildfires across Croatia in 2026. Croatia Unscripted reported that current Croatia wildfires are mostly under control after fires near Metkovic, Hvar, and Vinisce were extinguished, though firefighters remain on alert. Total Croatia News documented a major wildfire on the island of Ciovo. A Facebook group post confirmed a wildfire between Split and Krka National Park had been put under control. YouTube coverage documented wildfires raging across Croatia, with officials warning of a dangerous fire season ahead.
Public Safety
For residents and visitors on Korcula and the Dalmatian coast:
- Follow local fire authorities and Civil Protection Directorate for evacuation updates.
- Avoid the Smokvica-Blato area while firefighting operations are active.
- Never light barbecues, campfires, or cigarettes in forested areas.
- Report any new fires immediately by calling 112 (Croatia’s emergency number).
Conclusion
The Korcula fire — with 500 hectares of forest burned between Smokvica and Blato, the Prime Minister’s visit, Canadair aircraft deployed, and the broader Croatia wildfire pattern stretching from Hvar to Peljesac — remains an active incident. Residents and visitors should follow the Civil Protection Directorate, avoid the fire zone, and report any new fires to 112 immediately.
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