Castel Volturno – Flames two meters high, a column of smoke visible for kilometers, and over two hectares of vegetation reduced to ashes.
The Oasis of Variconi, one of Europe's most important wetlands, has been devastated for the second time in two days by a fire that devoured the right side of the natural park, along the banks of the Volturno.
Plastic, tires, and roof tiles: the cocktail that fueled the flames
Among the charred vegetation, WWF volunteers found piles of abandoned waste: plastic, tires, and construction materials that may have served as fuel for the fire. "This is a disaster waiting to happen," denounces WWF Caserta, which has been patrolling the area continuously since yesterday.
The oasis had already been hit by two fires in April, which destroyed two huts recently built to protect biodiversity.
Aircraft and special teams: the rescue machine
Two AIB (Forest Fire Prevention) teams, firefighters from the "Terra dei Fuochi" (Land of Fires), units from the province of Caserta, and two helicopters responded to put out the blaze. Mayor Pasquale Marrandino and the local Civil Protection Department were also on site. The Carabinieri Forestry Corps (FARC) have launched an investigation to determine whether the fire was caused by malicious intent.
A natural jewel under attack
"Here we study rare and migratory species; it's an open-air laboratory," the WWF explains. The area, recognized as a regional reserve, is a crossroads for aquatic birds and endemic plants. But today, among the blackened reeds, only fire scars remain, and the bitter question: how much longer will this natural sanctuary last?
In short
Castel Volturno - Flames two meters high, a column of smoke visible for kilometers, and over two hectares of vegetation reduced to ashes.
- The Variconi Oasis, one of Europe's most important wetlands, has been devastated for the second time in two days…
- Plastic, tires, and roof tiles: the cocktail that fueled the flames. Among the charred vegetation, WWF volunteers…
- "It's a disaster waiting to happen," denounces WWF Caserta, which has been patrolling the area continuously since yesterday.
Key questions
What is the main point of the news?
Castel Volturno - Flames two meters high, a column of smoke visible for kilometers, and over two hectares of vegetation reduced to ashes.
Why is this news relevant?
The Variconi Oasis, one of Europe's most important wetlands, has been devastated for the second time in two days…
Which detail helps us understand the case better?
Plastic, tires, and roof tiles: the cocktail that fueled the flames. Among the charred vegetation, WWF volunteers found piles of waste…
The article highlights the gravity of the situation with the fires affecting the Variconi Oasis. It's sad to see the vegetation destroyed and the waste abandoned. I hope a solution is found to protect this unique and rare place.