A massive forest fire in the Roztocze region has engulfed over 150 hectares and claimed the life of a pilot after his firefighting aircraft crashed during operations.
Fatal Aircraft Crash and Official Response
Minister Kierwiński and representatives of the emergency services met with journalists after 6:30 AM following a fire that broke out near the village of Kozaki in the Józefów forest district on Tuesday around 3:00 PM. The blaze quickly consumed more than 150 hectares of forest, and a Dromader firefighting aircraft crashed during the operation, resulting in the death of the pilot.
Expanding Fire and Challenging Terrain
State Fire Service Deputy Chief Paweł Frysztak estimated that the fire could potentially encompass up to 250 hectares. The firefighting operation is complicated by the difficult-to-reach terrain and the nature of the crown fire, which spreads rapidly through the tree canopy.
Government Alerts and Smoke Impact
Photographer Jakub Orzechowski reported heavy smoke and the smell of burning in Zwierzyniec, located over 20 km from the fire site. The Government Security Center has issued alerts for the Biłgoraj county, specifically the Łukowa, Józefów, and Aleksandrów communes, advising residents to keep windows closed and follow instructions from emergency services.