(ANSA) - BELGRADE, AUG 16 - The fire emergency persists in several Balkan countries where a heatwave and dry weather are prevalent. The situation remains alarming, especially in Montenegro, where there are numerous active fires. Forest fires have spread to the Niksic area, where several planes and helicopters are in action. The situation is also critical in Kuce and Pipere counties, where flames have threatened several homes for several hours. Firefighters and rescue teams intervened in time to save local residents from even worse consequences. According to media reports, air units from Hungary and the Czech Republic are taking part in the firefighting operations. Several large fires are also burning in North Macedonia, Croatia, and Albania. (ANSA).