Sofia, Bulgaria— Firefighters across Bulgaria battled 67 blazes in the past 24 hours, leaving two people severely injured. The national fire service called it one of the busiest days this month.
The Bulgarian Safety Services said calls started early Wednesday and did not stop until after midnight. Most fires were in dry grass, stubble fields and low brush. Several spread toward houses in Plovdiv, Yambol and Montana districts.
Two people were hospitalized with severe burns. One was a farmer who tried to control a field fire near Pazardzhik. The other was injured while clearing burning debris near Karlovo. Both were taken to emergency units and remain in intensive care.
Officials said high winds and unseasonal dryness helped flames move fast. Temperatures were above average for late October. Farmers burning stubble after harvest contributed to several ignitions. Open burning is restricted but still common.
The service deployed more than 200 fire trucks and 600 personnel. Volunteers joined in at least 12 locations. In one case near Stara Zagora, crews worked six hours to stop a front that threatened a lumber yard. No industrial damage was reported.
Smoke was visible from the Trakia motorway Wednesday afternoon. Drivers reported low visibility near Chirpan. Police temporarily limited speed there while crews worked close to the carriageway.
Investigators said at least 20 of the fires were caused by human activity. The rest are under review. Prosecutors may open cases where illegal burning is confirmed. Fines for unauthorized field fires can reach several thousand leva.
The safety services urged residents not to burn waste or dry vegetation. They also warned against leaving glass or cigarettes in forests. Forecasters expect dry conditions to continue through Thursday.
All major fires were declared extinguished by early morning. Patrols remain in three districts to watch for flare-ups.
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