Firefighters continue to battle scattered fires across 4 hectares of Šepetos peat bog

Firefighters have spent more than a day battling scattered fires in the Šepetos peat bog in Kupiškis district, with flames persisting across roughly 4 hectares, the Fire and Rescue Department (PAGD) reported Tuesday.

“Nothing has changed—the fires are still burning in isolated patches over about 4 hectares, and suppression efforts are ongoing,” PAGD spokesperson Edita Zdanevičienė told ELTA.

The incident highlights broader wildfire risks in Lithuania’s forests. This year alone, 125 forest and forest-floor fires have burned over 44 hectares, according to PAGD data. Last year saw 99 such fires by the same period, scorching more than 66 hectares. In total, firefighters extinguished 180 forest fires in 2025, affecting 87 hectares.

Vilnius and Kaunas counties have recorded the highest numbers of forest fires this year, with 62 and 20 incidents respectively. Historical data shows April, May, and June are peak months for such blazes.

Recent examples include a 3-hectare forest-floor fire in Kybartai municipality’s Keturkaimis village and a 2-hectare blaze in Panevėžys district’s Kapinės village, where flames also damaged several trees.

Officials warn of extreme dryness in forests, complicating firefighting. “When fires break out in remote areas, crews often can’t access them with vehicles and must transport water over long distances,” said Irma Meškauskaitė, head of the State Fire Prevention Board’s organisation department. “Even after suppression, firefighters must monitor sites for hours, as embers can reignite.”

Authorities urge caution, noting over 90% of forest fires result from human negligence. Prohibited actions include discarding lit cigarettes, glass, or other debris. Campfires are only permitted in designated areas and must be fully extinguished with soil or water before leaving.

Residents are advised to smother small flames using branches, dirt, or water. If a fire spreads beyond control, they should immediately call emergency services at 112 and evacuate upwind.