Forest fires force mass evacuation at Krasnodar resorts

Five thousand people had to be evacuated from six resorts in the Krasnodar Territory due to the massive forest fires raging around Novorossiysk. "People fled to the sea; there was no other way to escape the trap. The roads were cut off by the fire," reported the media.

Rescuers managed to control the situation after more than 24 hours. Currently, the fire extinguishing is ongoing. The Ministry of Emergency Situations reports that all fire hotspots at the camping sites have been eliminated.

"Five helicopters and an airplane were brought in to extinguish the flames. Five thousand people were evacuated. Two people were injured. People fled to the sea; there was no other way to escape the trap, and the fire cut off the roads," writes First Channel.

The fire broke out on July 14. Firefighters are still working in many areas. However, there is no longer a threat to the population. According to the Ural56 channel, the blaze damaged approximately 70 buildings. A state of emergency has been declared in Novorossiysk.

The fire reached the village of Abrau-Diurso, among other areas. It threatened a facility, seven hotels, and entertainment complexes, from stables to a yacht club. Additionally, it endangered 16 restaurants and 2,500 acres of vineyards. Heat and strong winds hindered firefighters' work.

Currently, 314 firefighters and 84 units of special equipment are participating in extinguishing the fires. An Il-76 plane and five K-32 helicopters from the Ministry of Emergency Situations were additionally sent.

At least four and a half thousand tourists are stuck in a traffic jam at the entrance to the Crimean Bridge from the Taman side. Many initially left for Novorossiysk and Anapa. People discovered the fire, turned back, and headed toward the peninsula.

The waiting time could be record-breaking, at 7 hours.