Sotta, France - August 31, 2024

A significant forest fire that erupted in the afternoon near the village of Sotta in southern Corsica on Thursday has been successfully contained, thanks to the relentless efforts of local firefighters and aerial support teams. The operation involved an impressive display of aerial firefighting with 73 water drops conducted by a fleet consisting of two Canadair aircraft, one Dash, and one heavy water bomber helicopter.

The fire, which started in a region known for its dense vegetation, prompted immediate response from the emergency services. The SIS_2A firefighters, along with rescue firefighters, were supported from above by the aerial units, which played a crucial role in managing the spread of the fire.

According to posts on social media platform X, the firefighting efforts were intense, with the aircraft making multiple passes to douse the flames. The use of such specialized equipment underscores the severity of the blaze, which threatened nearby residential areas. The coordinated air and ground assault managed to prevent any loss of human life or significant property damage, although the exact area of vegetation burned was substantial.

The fire was declared under control by the evening, but not before it consumed a considerable swath of the Corsican maquis, a unique and biodiverse shrubland ecosystem. Environmental experts are now assessing the ecological impact of the blaze.