Wildfire Forces Evacuation of 600 Tourists at Coastal Campground in Tuscany

A major wildfire broke out yesterday, July 10, in a coastal pine forest near the popular seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia, in southern Tuscany. The fire started in a campsite in the Rocchette area, prompting the evacuation of approximately 600 people, most of them tourists.

Initial reports suggest the blaze may have originated from a malfunctioning water desalination system. Fueled by dry conditions and pine vegetation, the flames quickly spread and caused multiple gas canisters to explode within the campground.

Firefighters, civil protection volunteers, and three firefighting helicopters — two from the regional fleet and one from the national fire service — are working to contain the blaze. Numerous water trucks are deployed to prevent the flames from reaching nearby buildings.

The area affected includes a historic pine forest, and the fire is approaching other tourist facilities and private homes located just behind the beach.

Emergency services, coordinated by the Prefecture of Grosseto, are using public buses and school transportation vehicles to evacuate people to designated shelters. A temporary reception center has been set up at the local sports hall, offering shade, water, and supplies. Another assistance point is being established at Casa Mora, where basic necessities — including mineral salts — are being distributed, with support from local businesses.

In a separate incident in the Grosseto province, another wildfire affected a wooded hillside near Granai di Cinigiano. That fire has since been brought under control thanks to coordinated efforts by regional firefighting helicopters and ground crews from local municipalities and volunteer organizations.

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