Massive wildfires on Crete: Over 1,500 people evacuated as flames spread
Wildfires in Greece (photo: Getty Images)
At least 1,500 people have been evacuated from the Greek island of Crete due to a massive wildfire that has engulfed popular tourist resorts, hotels, and coastal villages, reports The Independent.
The fire ignited on Wednesday afternoon in the forested hills near Ierapetra. Due to strong winds (up to 8 on the Beaufort scale), the blaze quickly spread southward and has already covered over 6 kilometers.
Homes are burning across the island
As a result of the disaster, homes and rental properties have burned down, including those in the village of Agia Fotia, where power has been cut. Mass evacuations were carried out in the areas of Achlia, Ferma, Agia Fotia, and Koutsounari. People were temporarily relocated to a sports complex in Ierapetra. Some had to be evacuated by boats from isolated beaches.
"It's a very difficult situation. The fire is very hard to contain. Right now, they cannot contain it," said civil protection official Nektarios Papadakis. He assured that all evacuated tourists are safe.
At least four people have sought medical attention for respiratory problems caused by the smoke. All hospitals on Crete have been placed on high alert.
Rescue workers on Crete working around the clock
More than 230 firefighters, dozens of fire engines, special units, and helicopters have been deployed to fight the fire. Additional reinforcements are arriving from the mainland by sea and air.
The wildfire is spreading due to hot, dry weather, steep terrain, and highly flammable vegetation. Rescuers plan to work through the night, creating firebreaks to contain the blaze.
Greece remains at high risk of wildfires due to the climate crisis. According to meteorologists, similar emergencies are being recorded in Turkey, Spain, France, and Italy. Europe is experiencing extreme heat, which has already caused at least eight deaths.
Europe is currently gripped by extreme heat. In France, a red alert has been issued, and schools are being closed. Spain has broken a temperature record, and Italy, Greece, and Portugal are tightening safety measures due to fire and heatstroke risks. Temperatures are expected to reach 42°C.
