Anne Enright's Wildfire Escape
Author Anne Enright recounts her family's harrowing experience escaping a wildfire in Croatia
Anne Enright and her family were on holiday in Croatia when they found themselves in the path of a raging wildfire. The family of four had rented a house in a remote area, accessible only by a narrow road. On their final evening, Enright's son alerted her to smoke coming over the hill, which sparked a sense of urgency and uncertainty.
The Fire Draws Near
As the night wore on, the smoke grew thicker and the family could see the glow of the fire in the distance. Enright took photographs to track the fire's progress, but it was difficult to gauge its proximity. The family's manager had informed them that the fire department had been notified, but there were no signs of emergency responders. The only sounds were the cicadas and the occasional barking of dogs in the distance.
On the first night of their arrival, the family had driven up the mountain in darkness, following a motorbike that led them to their holiday rental. The house was air-conditioned, and the family spent their days lounging by the pool, exploring the surrounding area, and swimming in the sea. However, the driving was intense, and the family had to handle through patches of construction and unfinished roads.
As the fire drew near, Enright and her husband, Martin, discussed the situation and decided that if the flames became visible, they would leave immediately. Enright had already gathered their passports and set them by the door, anticipating a potential evacuation. The family's children seemed less concerned, but Enright was vigilant, taking photographs and tracking the fire's progress.
A Decision to Leave
Enright and Martin talked quietly beside the pool, discussing their options and the potential danger. They decided to pack their cases and leave them outside the door, preparing for a potential evacuation. However, the children were slow to respond, and Enright had to urge them to pack up and be ready to leave.
A Sudden Departure
As the night wore on, the family watched the fire's progress, and at 7:30, the smoke glowed a vague orange in the evening air. Enright took more photographs, trying to gauge the fire's proximity. At 7:48, the firelight showed neon against a purple sky, and Enright wondered if the intensity of the flames was increasing.
The family eventually decided to leave, speeding up the narrow track to the tiny road above. As they drove away, they could see the wildfire crowning the mountain, a terrifying sight. The family's departure was sudden, and they had to drive towards the danger to get away from it.
Aftermath
The family eventually made it to safety, but not before seeing the fire's devastating scope. According to Google Maps, the wildfire had spread to seven square kilometers. The woman who managed the house later apologized for not responding sooner, stating that the fire had been brought under control. Enright and her family could have checked out of the house at the normal time and lived, but the experience left a lasting impression, and Enright couldn't shake the smell of woodsmoke from her nose for days.
