ZAGREB, 11 Sept (Hina) – The fire season in Croatia has officially ended with the closure of the Operational Command in Divulje, Chief Fire Commander Slavko Tucaković  said on Thursday.

The decision was made in coordination with regional commanders along the coast and the military. Tucaković  cited significant rainfall and reduced fire risks as reasons for the early end of the fire season.

According to the Croatian Firefighting Association (HVZ), between 1 January and 11 September 2025, the number of wildfires increased slightly (0.7% for open areas, 0.8% for vegetation), but the total burned area fell by nearly 70% compared to last year.

A total of 25 people died in fires this year, an almost 80% increase from 2024. No firefighters were killed, though 16 were injured, and the total number of fire-related injuries reached 142, up 30% from last year.

Aerial firefighting operations rose by 2%, but the number of aircraft deployed dropped by 26%. Croatian firefighting air forces also participated in international missions in Israel, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.

Overall, firefighters responded to 28,044 incidents, with 32% related to fires and 68% covering technical assistance, accidents, and other emergencies.

Tucaković  praised the firefighting system’s response and announced an upcoming season review with proposals for improvements.