Armenia. Wildfires Rage Across Northeastern Side— Massive Response Underway

🔥 The Fire and Its Reach

According to emergency services, the blaze has quickly advanced over rugged terrain, complicating ground efforts to contain it. Multiple other fire fronts have ignited in surrounding areas — notably near Dilijan and the settlement of Navur — close to ecologically sensitive forestlands and the boundaries of Dilijan National Park.

As of 26 November, one of the fire zones — a sector known as “Kazachi” — was reported as contained. However, other active zones remain, including forested stretches along winding roads near Dilijan and a zone near the “Mountain Armenia” hotel.

🚒 Massive Firefighting Operation

Authorities have mobilized an extensive firefighting force: nearly 1,500 responders overall, including firefighters, rescue specialists, eco-patrol officers, volunteers, and support from the military. A military helicopter from the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia has conducted over 20 water-dropping sorties, targeting hotspots unreachable by ground crews.

Unmanned aerial systems (drones) are providing aerial reconnaissance and surveillance to help map the fire perimeter and guide ground efforts.

Officials have set up a forward command post to coordinate multi-front operations, working around the clock as firefighters rotate shifts.

🌲 Ecological, Social, and Safety Implications

The fires pose a serious threat not only to vegetation but also to sensitive forests and protected nature zones near Dilijan. The blaze endangers local biodiversity and habitats, and has potential long-term ecological consequences if large forested areas are damaged.

Local communities and tourists have been urged to avoid the affected regions. Authorities warn that shifting winds and the terrain make the situation unpredictable, and flare-ups remain possible.

So far, no human injuries or fatalities have been reported, and officials say the flames were prevented from reaching housing and the resort area associated with the “Mountain Armenia” hotel.The Rescue Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia has confirmed that the operation remains ongoing, involving hundreds of rescuers and eco-patrol officers in addition to volunteers.

A Defense Ministry helicopter continues water-drops, while coordination among different agencies remains in effect.

Authorities have also ruled out the need for foreign assistance — affirming that domestic capabilities are currently sufficient to tackle the crisis.

As weather conditions and topography favor fire spread, residents and visitors are urged to respect fire-safety regulations, avoid entering forested or affected areas, and report any smoke or flame immediately.

The current wildfires across Tavush — including zones near Chambarak, Navur and Dilijan — mark one of Armenia’s most serious environmental emergencies of recent years. Given the scale of the disaster, ecological recovery may take months or longer: restoration of forests and ecosystems could be slow, especially if large-scale damage to biodiversity is confirmed