Wildfire in Tuscany forces thousands to evacuate

On May 1, 2026, Italian authorities initiated the evacuation of approximately 3,000 to 3,500 people in the Tuscany region due to a wildfire. The blaze, which has been burning for over 24 hours on Mount Faeta, is located in the mountainous area between the historic cities of Lucca and Pisa. Fire officials report that approximately 800 hectares of forest have been consumed. Strong winds have complicated containment efforts, driving the fire toward the village of Asciano. Emergency response teams, including three Canadair aircraft, one helicopter, firefighting ground crews, and police, are currently working to control the flames. Displaced residents have been temporarily sheltered in designated gymnasiums. While reports on the exact number of evacuees vary slightly between 3,000 and 3,500, the scope of the emergency remains significant.