Firefighters contain Dalmatia blaze as hundreds escape into sea near Omiš

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Aug 16, 2026, 01:30 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-08-16-0130
Firefighters contain Dalmatia blaze as hundreds escape into sea near Omiš
Photo: Danas

Fire crews in Croatia have brought a major wildfire near Omiš under control after more than 500 people fled into the sea to escape the flames.

Emergency services have contained active flames from a severe wildfire in Croatia's Dalmatia region, which spread from Lokva Rogoznica toward the coastal town of Omiš.

During the height of the blaze, more than 500 residents and tourists sought safety by fleeing into the Adriatic Sea, prompting maritime authorities, police, and over 20 private boat owners to stage water evacuations. Medical personnel at the hospital in Split treated around 40 people, with 14 hospitalized and up to eight patients in intensive care with critical burns. The fire caused extensive property damage, destroying homes, vehicles, and boats.

Reports regarding fatalities remain inconsistent; Danas reported that a body was recovered in Omiš, whereas other regional outlets citing official data stated there were no confirmed deaths. Firefighters continue dampening smouldering hotspots.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, Danas, N1, Vijesti.

How outlets assessed this

  • Aug 16, 2026, 01:30 AM UTC
    • Danas Alarmed Reported that emergency teams discovered a body in Omiš and noted eight people remain in critical condition.
    • Beta Cautious Reported no confirmed fatalities based on official data while noting several patients remain in intensive care.

Sources

Earlier coverage

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