The fire remains active across the Pelješac peninsula, with the situation on the ground complicated by strong winds. Although structures have so far been successfully defended, fire services remain on constant standby to prevent the spread of flames towards settlements and further in the direction of Trstenik. County Fire Chief Stjepan Simović confirmed that the situation is stable and that there is no need for the evacuation of residents.
Currently, one Canadair is present at the fireground, extinguishing the edges and hard-to-reach zones. Commander Simović stated that everything is under control, yet a more detailed analysis reveals a different picture across various sides of the fire. While the northern side is stable and the fire has been extinguished towards Potomje and Kuna Pelješka, the western side towards Orebić remains problematic. The most difficult situation was recorded on the southern side of the fireground.
Damage to cultural heritage and infrastructure is already evident. In Potomje, a church has been destroyed, and the road behind the settlement has been closed to traffic. Furthermore, there are queues on ferry routes, indicating disruptions to transport due to firefighting interventions and closed sections.
Farmers are facing enormous material losses. Winemaker and olive grower Alenko Radović suffered significant damage, with 450 young olive trees and 50 walnut trees planted near the cemetery burning down. The vineyards most affected were in the triangle between Prizdrina, Potomje, and Kuna, with plantings of Plavac Mali, the main Pelješac wine variety, particularly hard hit.
Multi-year plantations, into which vintners had invested for years, have been destroyed, and their restoration represents a lengthy and expensive process. Although farmers who had insured their crops could partially recover the damage, few had that option. The agricultural sector has been in a difficult position for years, and many producers lacked the financial means to set aside funds for insurance.
Residents of Pelješac expect the Dubrovnik-Neretva County to declare a natural disaster, which should partially alleviate the consequences. A calm night with little bura wind is forecast, but all firefighters remain at the fireground tonight to ensure that the fire does not break through the defensive lines.
