Wildfires scorch Sicily as Italy battles blazes in multiple regions

ISTANBUL/ROME

Firefighting efforts continued Friday to contain multiple wildfires that have erupted across Italy, particularly on the island of Sicily, according to sources.

Several wildfires have broken out since the beginning of the week between Trapani and Palermo in western Sicily, with the latest blaze starting near the town of Grisi and spreading to Partinico.

Two firefighting planes and two helicopters were deployed to tackle the flames from the air, while firefighters and civil defense teams responded on the ground.

Driven by strong winds, the fires spread to buildings and roads, damaging homes, sheds and infrastructure.

Italy’s ANSA news agency said more than 50 fires have ignited in recent days near Palermo, where record temperatures of more than 40°C (104°F) were recorded.

In the town of Partinico, seven fires were reported, destroying two homes and burning a wide area. Authorities evacuated around 30 houses as a precaution.

One firefighter was hospitalized due to smoke inhalation.

Meanwhile, wildfires also broke out in Sicily’s eastern areas, including near Mineo and the city of Catania, where response teams are continuing efforts.

On the island of Sardinia, another major Italian island, a wildfire near Serramanna in the south was brought under control in the evening hours.

Italy has faced increasingly frequent and intense wildfires in recent summers, with extreme heat and drought creating dangerous conditions across southern regions.