Early wildfires strike Primorsky Krai as crews battle blazes ahead of season

Forest fires have already struck parts of Primorsky Krai in late February, ahead of the official wildfire season. Firefighters responded swiftly to multiple blazes, including two large incidents in Pogranichny District. Authorities have warned that breaking fire safety rules will result in heavy fines.

On February 26, crews from the Primorsky Aviation Base tackled two major fires in Pogranichny District. The first burned through 90 hectares, while the second scorched 30 hectares before being brought under control.

Elsewhere, a wildfire broke out near Rubinovka on non-forest land, spreading across 40 hectares. Firefighters managed to contain it before it grew further. In Khasansky District, a smaller blaze in the Yasnoye health resort area affected 6 hectares. Teams extinguished this fire within four hours.

Since January 1, 2026, the region has recorded a total of 31 wildfires. The official wildfire season is set to begin on March 1, covering several districts in the krai.

The recent fires highlight the early risks this year, with crews already active before the season's start. Penalties for violating fire safety regulations remain in place, reinforcing the need for caution. Official monitoring and response efforts will intensify once the season formally begins next week.