Fire on beach at Molentis Point in Sardinia leads to large-scale evacuation of beach-goers

VILLASIMIUS – the Mistral wind blows hard in Sardinia, and even harder when there is a fire. On Sunday, strong winds fed a devastating fire on the beach at Molentis Point, one of the most beloved and iconic beaches on the island. The Sardinians know and love it well – white sand and crystal waters. But it is also home to that picturesque Mediterranean scrub that provides the perfect kindling, only encouraging the spread of the flames.

The flames spread as quickly as the news of the fire on social media, endangering the approximately 200 people on the beach at the time, cutting off all escape routes and engulfing over 100 vehicles in the nearby parking lot. Those who were unable to escape on land found refuge in the sea, including a six months pregnant woman and an asthmatic child. The Coast Guard began extraction operations among the flames and waves, succeeding in evacuating 102 people, 12 of whom were children. Several private boats were also offered as rescue vessels.

Though fortunately there were human casualties or serious injuries, the effects of the fire are evident on the landscape and environment, with devastating results on the ecologically rich island. President of the region, Alessandra Todde says “ we are not giving into the violence and attempt to destroy our earth. We are working even harder to reinforce the tools needed to prevent and intervene [this destruction]. I reiterate – those who destroy Sardinia are the enemies of our community. And they will be treated as such. Without mercy.”

rs