Major Fire Extinguished at Albania’s Lalzi Bay After Tourists Evacuated

A major wind-driven fire near Albania’s popular Lalzi Bay resort area has been extinguished after forcing the evacuation of tourists and nearby residents overnight.

The fire spread rapidly through the Shën Pjetër area near Durrës, threatening a tourist complex and a private home.

Tourists Evacuated as Flames Approached

Authorities evacuated everyone inside the tourist complex and the threatened residence as firefighters worked to stop the flames from reaching buildings.

Twelve fire engines, five water tankers and approximately 40 civil-protection personnel were deployed from Durrës, Tirana and several neighboring municipalities.

Strong winds complicated the operation and accelerated the spread of the fire.

Authorities Suspect Deliberate Arson

The administrator of the Ishëm administrative area said the fire may have been deliberately started near several agricultural barns.

Fire crews remained at the scene overnight to prevent the flames from reigniting.

No deaths or injuries have been reported. Authorities said Wednesday morning that the Lalzi Bay fire had been completely extinguished, although a separate fire remained active in the Biza forest.