F-16 jets relocated as wildfires cause explosion at ammunition depot in Greece

·

Strong winds caused a wildfire to set off explosions at an air force ammunition depot in central Greece on Thursday, AP News reported.

The massive explosions shattered windows on nearby houses, but there were no deaths or injuries as the Greek fire service had evacuated the depot and surrounding villages earlier in the day.

According to AP News, the wildfire reached the ammunition storage facility where bombs and ammunition for Greek F-16 fighters were stored.

The storage facility is approximately 6 kilometres north of the major military air base in Nea Anchialos town.

F-16 fighter jets at a nearby base have been moved to another facility as a precaution, the Greek air force said.

Fire Service spokesman Ioannis Artopios said 12 villages were evacuated in the Volos-Nea Anchialos area, reported 9News.

This latest explosion comes as fires have raged across parts of Greece during three successive Mediterranean heat waves in the past two weeks, leaving five people dead, including two firefighting pilots, and triggering a huge weekend evacuation of tourists on the island of Rhodes.

On Thursday, Greek firefighters battled flames for a 10 successive day on Rhodes, where officials said the blazes were largely contained. Flare-ups were reported on the island of Evia.

Source: AP News

READ MORE: Australian helicopters join fight against wildfires in Greece.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Cyprus Community of SA honours Thekla Petrou for 50 years of service

The Cyprus Community of SA has honoured founding Ladies Auxiliary president Thekla Petrou for 50 years of dedicated service.

Community rallies to stop Coburg development threatening Greek Orthodox church

Coburg’s community is rallying to protect its Orthodox Church, warning that the proposed high-rise development would undermine a vital hub.

How the historic inheritance law overhaul in Greece is set to benefit Greeks abroad

Greece is moving ahead with the largest overhaul of its inheritance framework since 1946, following the presentation of a new draft bill.

Australian Hellenic Medical Charity raises over $100,000 for Kalymnos Hospital

On the evening of November 28, the Australian Hellenic Medical Charity Incorporated (AHMCI) held its annual gala.

Sydney student Anasta Andreou recognised for leadership in sustainability

St Euphemia College proudly celebrates Sustainability Prefect Anasta Andreou, who has been honoured for his Design & Technology project.

You May Also Like

Australian media lawyer James Raptis resigns amid links to plagiarism operation

Media lawyer James Raptis has resigned from his position at Australian Community Media after being linked to an AI plagiarism operation.

Vasili’s Taxidi: After 50 Years, The Passion Behind Angela’s Hairdressing Salon’s Shop Window

One of these maestros is definitely Angela Giokas of ‘Angela’s Hairdressing Salon’ at Rosebery and you cannot help being in awe of her love for her work.

Apostolos Apostolakis from Crete named Greek Captain of the Year

Captain Apostolos Apostolakis was awarded 'Seafarer of the Year' at the prestigious Lloyd’s List Greek Shipping Awards on December 4.