Skopje, 9 July 2025 (MIA) - A firefighting plane from the Rescue and Protection Directorate, a helicopter from the Interior Ministry, as well as several vehicles from the Skopje fire brigade and the Communal Hygiene public enterprise are currently battling the fire that broke out at a landfill in Vizbegovo in the Municipality of Shuto Orizari on Wednesday morning. 

The heavy wind is further spreading the fire and there is a risk that it could spread to nearby houses. 

The Interior Ministry said one person has been injured in the fire and has been taken to a medical facility.  

Before the intervention by the Rescue and Protection Directorate and the Interior Ministry, the local population worked to clear up old metal and tires in the surrounding area to slow the spread of the fire. The police have now barred people from accessing the area. 

The Crisis Management Center (CMC) said the fire poses a threat to the citizens of Shuto Orizari and if the need arises, they will be evacuated based on an assessment by the Mayor of Shuto Orizari, Kurto Dudush.  

The CMC urged citizens to avoid movement near the fire and to stay at home with their windows closed until the situation stabilizes.

Photo/Video: MIA