Wildfire Erupts Near Villasimius Beach, Swimmers Flee—Some Rescued by Sea
Villasimius, Sardinia – July 28, 2025 – Panic struck the popular Villasimius beach today as a fast-moving wildfire, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, encroached on the shoreline, forcing swimmers and sunbathers to flee. Some were forced to seek safety in the water, with local rescue teams deploying boats to evacuate those trapped near the flames.
Chaos on the Coast
The blaze broke out in nearby brushland in the early afternoon and rapidly spread toward Cala Sinzias, one of Sardinia’s most beloved beaches. Thick smoke billowed over the coastline as terrified beachgoers—many still in swimwear—grabbed their belongings and ran toward the shore or nearby parking areas.
“We heard people screaming, then saw the flames coming down the hills. Some ran into the water to escape the heat and smoke,” said Luca Ferri, a tourist from Rome. “It was like a disaster movie.”
Maritime Rescue Operation
With some escape routes cut off by the fire, several swimmers were left stranded along the rocky coastline. The Sardinian Coast Guard and local firefighters mobilized quickly, using patrol boats and jet skis to pluck people from the water. No serious injuries have been reported, though at least two individuals were treated for smoke inhalation.
Firefighters Battle the Blaze
Ground crews and aerial firefighting planes are working to contain the flames, but strong Mistral winds are complicating efforts. Authorities have closed access to several nearby beaches and are urging residents and tourists to avoid the area.
Drought and Heatwave Fuel Risk
Southern Sardinia has been under a red alert for extreme fire risk due to a prolonged heatwave and drought. This is the third major wildfire in the region this month, raising concerns about the increasing threat of climate-driven disasters in Mediterranean tourist hotspots.
🚨 Emergency Info: Travelers in the area should monitor local alerts and follow evacuation instructions. #SardiniaFire #Villasimius