Lattakia fires..flames reach Farnaq Reserve

Intensive efforts are underway in the Lattakia countryside to extinguish fires that broke out in several forested areas several days ago, spreading rapidly due to rugged terrain and strong winds. As the fifth day approaches, the fires remain out of control in several locations, amid widespread mobilization of field teams.

According to local sources, flames have reached the Farnaq Nature Reserve, one of the largest green spaces in the region, causing the fire to expand and new outbreaks to appear in areas such as Qastal Maaf. Field teams, comprising more than 100 firefighting teams, are working around the clock to contain the flames, supported by heavy equipment and joint efforts with teams from neighboring countries.

Despite the magnitude of the incident, no civilian casualties have been reported so far. One firefighter was injured during the operations, and some cases of suffocation were dealt with on the ground.

As the fires continue, public concern is growing about a repeat of previous years' fires, amid questions about the reasons for this rapid expansion and the relatively late state of alert in some areas. Firefighting efforts still face significant challenges, while the fate of the forests remains contingent on the critical hours ahead, which may determine the extent of the environmental disaster threatening the Syrian coast.

Sh-S

ANHA