A wildfire broke out near Zlatni Rat beach early Friday morning, but was quickly contained thanks to the coordinated response of Brač’s firefighting units.
At 2:47 AM on Friday, July 18, a wildfire was reported near Zlatni Rat beach, prompting immediate action from fire units across the island of Brač due to the proximity of hotels and tourist facilities.
As a precaution, guests and staff from Hotel Centar Marjan and Camp Mario were evacuated. Initially taken to the beach area, they were later escorted along a safe route to the town of Bol, where municipal services provided medical aid, food, water, and translation assistance.
To ensure firefighter safety, the power line passing through the affected area was temporarily shut down, and the local road Rotor–Zlatni Rat was briefly closed to traffic.
A total of 60 firefighters with 25 vehicles from various local fire brigades, including international participants from Slovenia, were involved. A Canadair firefighting aircraft joined the effort but was forced to withdraw due to strong winds and sea conditions.
By 6:00 AM, the fire was successfully contained. No buildings were damaged, and there were no injuries. The affected area is estimated at 42 hectares, mainly pine forest, olive trees, vineyards, and coastal vegetation.
Cleanup and monitoring operations are ongoing. Visitors are advised to be cautious when visiting Zlatni Rat, and everyone is urged to avoid careless behaviour involving open flames, cigarettes or similar. Over 80% of wildfires are caused by human negligence.
