Vienna : A large forest fire has broken out across extensive areas in southern Austria.
Firefighting teams reported that operations were ongoing to control the blaze, which began on Thursday near the village of Maria Luggau, close to the Italian border, and has spread over an area equivalent to around 150 football fields, or approximately 110 hectares.
Authorities said the cause of the fire remains under investigation, while strong winds and dry conditions have contributed to its rapid spread.
The fire is not currently posing a direct threat to residents or property, but challenging terrain and steep slopes are complicating firefighting efforts. Helicopters had been deployed to support operations in the most inaccessible areas.
