Villasimius Mayor Gianluca Dessì ordered all access to Punta Molentis beach closed late last night. The move follows a major fire yesterday that destroyed dozens of cars and forced approximately 200 swimmers to flee into the sea.
Investigations by the Regional Forestry Corps are underway to determine the cause of the blaze, which erupted during strong Mistral winds gusting at 35-40 km/h. Authorities are now assessing the extensive damage, encompassing both property and the environment, describing the destruction of this limited-access coastal paradise as a “giant blaze” that threatened tourists crowding the shoreline.
Mayor Dessì’s closure ordinance cites “significant damage to the natural heritage” and compromised public safety conditions. It highlights potential hazards including residual hotspots, burnt materials, unstable trees, and dangerous debris. “Given the need to allow competent authorities to conduct cleanup, safety operations, and stability checks of the area,” the order states, “the public beach of Punta Molentis is closed with immediate effect.” The closure will remain until cleanup and safety measures are completed and certified by the relevant authorities.