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 entertainment zone ‘Arcadia’ opens at the Hellenic Club of Canberra

The Hellenic Club Woden has opened a new entertainment zone with more than 25 attractions for Canberra residents.

South Melbourne FC push for glory as OFC Pro League reaches crunch time

South Melbourne FC head into the OFC Pro League finals series in Auckland among the favourites, with the inaugural Oceania title to be decided

Childcare worker wins $41k in unfair dismissal case after workplace dispute

A childcare worker has been awarded over $41,000 after the Fair Work Commission found his dismissal unfair.

Zoe Kapolos calls for Federal Government to enshrine menstrual leave in law

Zoe Kapolos is pushing for menstrual leave to be enshrined in Australian law, as her petition gains momentum.

Sydney Harbour views blocked as Bradfield Park compound sparks community anger

Residents near Bradfield Park South say ongoing Harbour Bridge works have turned a prized foreshore into a long-term construction site.

You May Also Like

Shooter Anna Korakaki takes the gold at the H&N Cup in Munich

Greek Olympic gold medalist and world champion shooter Anna Korakaki won a gold medal on Friday at this year’s H&N Cup in Munich, Germany, adding another accolade to her growing collection.

Peter Dutton MP praises Australia’s Greek community in Christmas message

Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton MP, has praised the contribution of the Greek community to Australia in his Christmas message.

Woman arrested after allegedly selling ancient Greek artefacts online

Authorities have arrested a woman accused of running online auctions on social media to sell ancient Greek artefacts in multiple countries.