A fast-moving wildfire fueled by strong winds has forced the evacuation of 15 families in the village of Rriban, in southern Albania's Mallakastër region, as flames continue to spread toward residential areas, authorities said.

The fire, which has been burning since the early hours of the morning, rapidly intensified after reaching pine tree canopies, increasing the risk of further spread across the rugged terrain.

Police evacuated residents along with their livestock and pets as a precaution, while emergency crews continued efforts to contain the blaze and protect nearby homes.

The response involves firefighters, officers from the Fier Regional Police Directorate and the Mallakastër Police Commissariat, National Security Forces, civil emergency teams, and the Albanian Armed Forces. A helicopter from the Ministry of Defense and a Canadair firefighting aircraft have been deployed to support ground crews battling the fire from the air.

Authorities said the wildfire has already burned large areas of vegetation, causing significant environmental damage. Police remain on the ground assisting residents and coordinating emergency operations as firefighters work to bring the blaze under control.

Meanwhile, investigators, under the supervision of the Prosecutor's Office, have launched an inquiry to determine the cause of the fire. Officials said they are examining whether the blaze may have resulted from unlawful human activity.

The Fier Regional Police Directorate urged the public not to light fires to burn agricultural or vegetation waste, warning that such actions can quickly escalate into wildfires that threaten lives, property, and the environment, particularly under strong wind conditions.