Wildfires in Far East Russia’s Zabaikalsky region have forced the evacuation of residents near Chita and led to the temporary closure of a federal highway as flames advance toward towns and summer camps.

Strong winds and dry weather are fueling rapidly spreading wildfires across Russia’s Zabaikalsky region, with over 456,000 hectares burning and firefighters racing to protect populated areas.

Forest fires have swept across Russia’s Siberian and Far East regions, signaling a harsh 2025 wildfire season with over 52 active blazes, widespread damage, and critical resource shortages.

The stormy wind at 30 metres per second rose in Chita in the afternoon on Wednesday 13 May.

At least 90 left homeless in one village after raging infernos, say reports.

Heavy rains engulf TransBaikal region with a dozen railway bridges destroyed and 15 more damaged.