Fourteen people were hospitalised after a wildfire approached Omiš, with seven reported in life‑threatening condition; parts of the town lost power and properties were damaged. Evacuees slept in a sports hall as firefighters brought the blaze under control by Friday; authorities reported no fatalities. Crews were also sent to a separate fire on the Pelješac peninsula. The fires hit during Croatia's peak tourist season, forcing coastal road closures between Split and Dubrovnik and threatening the area's tourism capacity.
Wildfire Near Omiš Hospitalises 14, Disrupts Coastal Travel During Peak Tourist Season
Croatia wildfire near Omiš injures residents and disrupts holiday travel
Fourteen people were hospitalised after a fast-moving wildfire approached the town of Omiš, Croatia, early on Friday, with seven reported to be in life‑threatening condition. As flames neared the town centre, parts of Omiš lost power and a number of homes, cars and boats were damaged or destroyed. Evacuees spent the night in a sports hall, sleeping on beds and on the floor.
Chaos as Residents Flee
Residents described chaotic scenes while escaping the advancing fire. Slavko Tučaković, commander of the Omiš Fire Brigade, said many houses and vehicles had been lost, and that the blaze inflicted heavy damage on property, the local environment and wildlife.
Slavko Tučaković: "Numerous homes and vehicles were destroyed, and the damage to the environment and wildlife is extensive."
Firefighting Response and Current Status
Firefighters brought the main blaze under control by Friday, and additional crews were sent to tackle a separate wildfire on the Pelješac peninsula. Authorities confirmed there were no fatalities.
Impact On Travel And Tourism
The fires struck at the height of Croatia's summer tourist season, threatening travel plans and adding pressure to a tourism-dependent local economy. Sections of the main coastal road near Omiš were closed, disrupting connections between Split and Dubrovnik and affecting day-trip and coach services. Damage to homes, cafés, restaurants, vehicles and boats could reduce the area's tourism capacity precisely when demand is highest.
What to expect next: Local authorities continue to assess property and environmental damage, monitor remaining hotspots, and coordinate recovery and support for evacuees and affected businesses.
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