Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia forest fires - Summer 2007

Description of the emergency and request for assistance:

The Former Yugoslav republic of Macedonia experienced a serious outbreak of wild fires, destroying extensive afforested areas. The areas where the fires were reported to be most serious were Bitola and Gostivar. The total burnt area mapped by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre until 31 July 2007 was 26 729 hectares. In addition to all available national resources, three private wildfire-fighting airplanes along with two military helicopters were supporting fire-fighters, military personnel and local volunteers. The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia eventually requested assistance to the MIC on 23 July 2007.

Assistance sent through the mechanism:

Following the MIC's activation, Slovenia provided a fire-fighting helicopter; Austria and Sweden both sent 2 assessment experts and fire fighting equipment; the Czech Republic, Denmark Germany, Poland and Norway provided fire-fighting equipment and protective gear. Following this assistance, the MIC closed this emergency in the second week of August.