Several wildfires have hit the Gargano promontory in Puglia and the neighboring coast of Basso Molise, prompting evacuations of tourists from beaches and campsites. The main fire front developed in the municipality of Peschici, in the area between Manaccora and Zaiana, reaching areas close to the sea along the coastal road between Peschici and Vieste. The blaze, fueled by strong winds, proved particularly difficult to contain.

The Coast Guard carried out sea evacuations of bathers from beaches along the Peschici-Vieste coastline, assisted by tourist boats. According to the mayor of Peschici, Luigi d'Arenzo, approximately 200 bathers were transported by sea. Around 300 campers from several camping sites were heading to Vieste, where they were to be housed in gyms and other municipal facilities. The municipality of Peschici opened a school building in via Montesanto as a reception point for those in need of assistance.

Firefighting operations involved two Canadair aircraft, a Civil Protection helicopter, and ground teams. The smoke cloud was visible from several kilometers away. The fire burned a large area of Mediterranean scrub and Aleppo pines. No injuries were reported.

The mayor of Peschici stated he was certain the fires were arson, as they were set in multiple locations. This assessment is attributed to the mayor and has not been independently confirmed.

Traffic and rail services were affected. Ferrovie del Gargano announced the closure of Provincial Road 52, with buses diverted to State Road 89, and rerouting of services between Vieste and Peschici in both directions. The company also made its vehicles available for rescue and evacuation operations.

Fires also affected the coast of Basso Molise, near the border with Gargano, in the Campomarino area. Tourists were evacuated from campsites and beach establishments. Multiple fire fronts reached a retirement home (RSA), and 21 elderly residents were transferred by local police to the Church of Santo Spirito. The fire also reached a hotel closed for renovation.

In Molise, the wildfire disrupted rail and road traffic at Campomarino Lido. Two trains with approximately 500 passengers were stopped at Termoli station, later transferred via replacement buses. Railway technicians were assessing possible damage to infrastructure. State Road 16 Adriatica was reopened shortly before 8 PM after the fires were brought under control. Firefighters from Abruzzo also provided support, along with a Canadair dispatched from Peschici.