Massive forest fire in Biłgoraj County

5 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Biłgoraj County wildfire forces 200 firefighters and two helicopters to battle fast-moving fire amid severe drought.

The Biłgoraj County wildfire has erupted near Józefów and surrounding villages, and firefighters are battling the blaze with nearly 60 units on scene.

Consequently about 200 firefighters, two helicopters and a special operations group from Lublin are tackling the fast-moving fire. Moreover local authorities closed regional road 849 near Kozaki, and officials warn that roads near Józefów, Łukowa and Kozaki may be impassable.

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What happened and who is responding

Authorities report that almost 60 fire crews from Biłgoraj county and neighbouring districts work at the scene. In addition two helicopters carry water and a command-and-communications vehicle from Lublin supports coordination. The county head, starosta Andrzej Szarlip, appealed for clear roads. Therefore officials ask drivers to avoid the area and to let emergency vehicles pass.

Biłgoraj County wildfire: scope and risks

The fire spreads quickly because of extreme drought, and smoke covers kilometres of sky. Consequently residents share dramatic photos online that show dark smoke over the horizon. However firefighters continue to attack the flames from multiple fronts. In addition crews say the fire remains uncontrolled at this stage and presents a risk to homes and infrastructure.

Local disruptions and safety measures

Authorities closed parts of regional road 849, and they warn that other local roads may be blocked. Therefore you should not approach the scene to watch. Moreover doing so endangers you and hinders rescue work. Police and emergency services can issue fines (in Poland called mandat) for obstructing operations. In addition people who need medical help should contact emergency services or their local clinic covered by NFZ (the National Health Fund).

Consequently if you live or travel near the area plan detours and expect delays. Moreover heavy smoke can affect air quality and breathing. Therefore people with respiratory conditions should stay indoors. In addition authorities may evacuate nearby homes if the fire threatens populated areas.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are an expat, call 112 for immediate help and say “pożar” to indicate fire. The county head (starosta) runs county-level administration and coordinates with regional services. Keep your ID documents handy; in Poland PESEL is your national ID number used for many administrative tasks. Also note social institutions like ZUS (social insurance) and NFZ (health fund) handle post-incident support differently. Do not attempt to block roads or take photos near the fire. Police may give a mandat (fine) for obstructing emergency services. Finally, register with your embassy if you need assistance.

Fire crews continue to concentrate resources on containment lines, and coordination grows with additional units from Lublin. Moreover the priority remains protecting life and property. Therefore authorities will update the public as the situation develops.

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