The Black Sea city of Novorossiisk in southern Russia has declared a state of emergency due to forest fires that have engulfed 22 hectares, according to the city's mayor.
In recent weeks, Russia has faced widespread forest fires caused by extreme heat, gusty winds, and dry thunderstorms, affecting regions from the distant Tuva in Siberia to the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in the Far East.
Mayor Andrei Kravchenko shared images on social media showing firefighters tackling the fires and extensive areas of burnt land and trees. In a message on Telegram, Kravchenko mentioned that preparations were made to evacuate approximately 200 people from danger zones, and helicopters were deployed to douse the flames in the mountainous areas.
The fires have also spread to the wider Krasnodar region, where Novorossiisk is situated, a popular destination for Russian tourists during the summer season.
