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

St Spyridon College celebrates outstanding HSC results for Class of 2025

The St Spyridon College HSC cohort of 2025 consisted of 64 Year 12 students and 13 Accelerated Year 11 students.

Greek Australian students shine in NSW HSC results for 2025

Greek Australian students have shone across NSW in the 2025 HSC results, with many recognised for achievements across a range of subjects.

Sydney student Anna Petrou accepted into prestigious Berklee College of Music in the US

All Saints Grammar Class of 2025 student Anna Petrou has been accepted into the prestigious Berklee College of Music in the United States.

Faith in action as Kogarah Greek Orthodox Parish delivers toys to kids in need this Christmas

The Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah has launched its annual Christmas Toy Distribution, bringing festive cheer to children.

Victoria’s faith and community leaders unite in historic stand against racism

Faith and community leaders have come together for the first time in Victoria’s history, meeting in the Cabinet to sign a joint pledge.

You May Also Like

Greek Communities of Melbourne and NSW stand with Jewish community after Bondi attack

Greek Communities in Melbourne and NSW have condemned the Bondi Beach attack, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community.

Menendez: ‘I strongly oppose the sale of new F-16 aircraft to Turkey’

The State Department sent an informal document to Congress preparing the potential $20 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey.

Cypriots of SA discuss pathways forward in forum on the Cyprus Problem

Continuing through a period of remembrance, following the community’s commemoration of 51st anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.