Authorities initially reported the fire covered four hectares. Extinguishing operations are challenging due to the inaccessible mountainous terrain and hot, dry weather conditions.
The wildfire in the Gelendzhik forestry of Russia`s Krasnodar Krai has expanded to 12 hectares. The high temperatures, reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius, and dry conditions are exacerbating the situation.
The blaze erupted in a remote mountainous area close to the resort village of Kabardinka. Local authorities have confirmed that the fire is contained away from residential zones, posing no threat to homes.
Over 130 personnel and 24 pieces of equipment, including a Mi-8 helicopter, are actively engaged in the firefighting efforts, as reported by the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
According to Natalia Bragina, a local resident and real estate expert, there is no noticeable smoke smell along the Gelendzhik coastline:
Natalia Bragina, Real Estate Expert:
«A significant number of people are engaged in fighting the fire, with helicopters actively dropping water. The weather is exceptionally hot; daytime temperatures in Gelendzhik reached 35-40 degrees Celsius, and it`s currently very humid and dry. Kabardinka is about 15-18 kilometers from Gelendzhik. Driving on the highway from Kabardinka, you can see the firefighting helicopters. I`ve also heard that a large contingent of personnel is involved in combating the blaze. However, in Gelendzhik itself, there`s no smoke, and the beaches are calm, bustling with tourists. There`s no smell of burning, allowing tourists to relax peacefully by the sea.»
A power line near the fire site led to electricity outages in parts of the resort. Power supply is now being progressively restored. Tourism industry representatives confirm that tourists were unaffected, as most hotels are equipped with backup generators.
However, tourist Evgenia noted some inconveniences:
Evgenia, Tourist:
«We are currently on the beach in Gelendzhik; there`s no smell of burning, but everyone knows about the forest fires in Kabardinka. Due to the fire in Kabardinka, electricity was cut off on many streets in Gelendzhik. Some shops are not working, and traffic lights are out. This is very uncomfortable. In all other respects, concerning Gelendzhik, no consequences are observed.»
Anna Kabulova, General Manager of «Zhemchuzhina Morya» (Sea Pearl) sanatorium and children`s camp in Kabardinka, stated that the cause of the fire has not yet been announced:
Anna Kabulova, General Manager of «Zhemchuzhina Morya» Sanatorium and Children`s Camp in Kabardinka:
«The fire affected a forest area. By evening, it was localized, and the electricity supply was fully restored. I believe the response was incredibly swift, especially considering the anomalous heat today, reaching 41 degrees Celsius in the shade. An emergency services helicopter, 12 units of equipment, and 180 personnel were involved. We even sent staff from our sanatorium to assist. We always respond promptly and cohesively to such emergencies, and people are very understanding and supportive. I credit the quick and efficient actions of all involved. The official cause of the fire hasn`t been disclosed yet; it could be attributed to the extreme heat and dry forest conditions. An investigation will undoubtedly follow to determine the exact cause, as the weather has been exceptionally dry with no rainfall.»
The Russian Union of Travel Industry stated that the Gelendzhik fire is situated well away from tourist accommodations and poses no threat to visitors. No complaints have been reported by holidaymakers.
