A large wildfire has erupted in the woods above San Felice Bay in Vieste, Gargano, prompting the evacuation of approximately 1,200 tourists from nearby accommodations.

The fire, fueled by strong northwesterly winds, is threatening vast green areas and is dangerously close to a tourist facility housing around 2,000 people.

Firefighters and civil protection volunteers are on-site, and aerial support has been requested, including Canadair aircraft for water drops.

Mayor Giuseppe Nobiletti has indicated that this is the fifth attempt to control the fire in a week, raising suspicions of arson.

As a precaution, the nearby Baia dei Campi resort has been evacuated, with tourists being transported by boat to safety.

The situation remains critical, but authorities are monitoring it closely.