A powerful wildfire that swept through Himara and surrounding villages overnight has affected around 50 homes and villas, while seven houses have been completely destroyed, according to official data provided early this Saturday.

Of the seven homes destroyed, four were inhabited, while three were older, unoccupied properties.

The fire, fueled by strong winds, spread rapidly across parts of the Municipality of Himara, threatening residential areas, hotels and holiday properties and forcing residents and tourists to flee to safer locations.

The Ministry of Defense said that 171 military personnel, 10 vehicles, one firefighting vehicle and one ambulance from the Albanian Armed Forces remained on standby throughout the night as authorities worked to protect lives and property and respond to the emergency.

Beyond the extensive damage to homes and other properties, the wildfire has also caused significant financial losses for hotels and holiday accommodation in the area.

Several hotels in Himara and the nearby Potam area were evacuated as the flames approached. Foreign tourists and local holidaymakers rushed to collect their luggage and leave the area as the situation deteriorated.