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.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Latest News

New GOCNSW President Con Apoifis sets vision of unity, service and cultural renewal

New GOCNSW President Con Apoifis shares how family legacy, professional experience and a commitment to service will guide the Koinotita.

HMSA highlights collaboration and major legislative win at annual End-of-Year event

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) held it’s end of year celebration on Friday, December 5 at the Greek Centre, Melbourne. 

St Nicholas Parish hosts graduation for Greek Welfare Centre’s early childhood groups

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia attended a graduation event at the Parish of Saint Nicholas in Marrickville, Sydney, on Sunday.

Mavi Gelati set to open second store at the Hellenic Club of Canberra

The Mavi Gelati team entered Australia’s gelati scene in December 2024 with their first store in NSW’s Ulladulla.

Oakleigh Grammar students share the spirit of Christmas with Melbourne’s Greek community

Every December, a deeply moving tradition comes to life at Oakleigh Grammar – Primary School students put on their brightest smiles.

You May Also Like

Michael Theo among top 10 rising stars of 2024

The Casting Guild Association's Rising Stars for 2024 have been announced and actor Michael Theo is among them.

Nicholas Sorras returns to Sydney Olympic for upcoming NPL season

Nicholas Sorras has returned to his NPL home at Sydney Olympic after finishing up a short stint in the A-League men's.

Albania appoints ethnic Greek as prefect of the Vlora district

On Wednesday, March 13, Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama appointed Vangjel Tavo, an ethnic Greek, as the prefect of Vlora district.Â