Critical situation in Deliblato Sands as heatwave threatens firefighting efforts

The fire, which has been burning within the nature reserve for over a month, has already scorched more than 3,500 hectares. High winds continue to make it difficult for firefighting teams to access the heart of the blaze.

Known as “the European Sahara,” the Deliblato Sands (Deliblatska pescara) is one of the continent’s last remaining deserts. It is located in the southeastern part of Serbia’s northern province of Vojvodina, nestled between the Danube and the slopes of the Carpathian Mountains, just 80 kilometers from Belgrade.

An N1 reporting team attempted to reach the area via the town of Kovin but was stopped by police. Officers on the scene are currently prohibiting all crews from moving any closer to the fire line.

N1 has reached out to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) for the latest official updates, but a response has not yet been received.

The national weather service (RHMZ) warns of an incoming heatwave between August 20 and 25. Meteorologists predict that the extreme heat and dry conditions will further complicate firefighting efforts and heighten the risk of the fire spreading.