Greek authorities nationwide remain vigilant following the outbreak of 71 wildfires reported within a mere 12-hour period on Saturday. Among these blazes, the most significant occurred on the Greek island of Crete, prompting the evacuation of numerous residents.
The wildfire, now successfully contained, ignited early on Saturday, rapidly spreading across the mountainous forest slopes east of the coastal town of Ierapetra, driven by strong winds.
As the fire approached residential areas, precautionary evacuations were ordered for the villages of Achlia, Galini, Agia Fotia, and Mavros Kolimpos.
🔥🚒 And so it begins again!!
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) April 6, 2024
A fire is currently raging in Ierapetra, Crete, resulting in four injuries so far. Residents from four villages in Crete have been advised to evacuate as firefighters combat a significant wildfire in a mountainous region northeast of Ierapetra.… pic.twitter.com/rLrvzbWWnr
“The fire has significantly diminished following the efforts of hundreds of firefighters,” stated a fire service official to Reuters. “This marks the first major incident near residential zones this year.”
Minor injuries led to the hospitalisation of a firefighter and a local resident. Approximately 150 firefighters, aided by three helicopters, battled the forest inferno on the ground.
With Greece having experienced its warmest winter on record, concerns among scientists persist regarding the potential severity of the fire season, exacerbated by warm and dry conditions across the land.
The Civil Protection Ministry has raised alerts due to anticipated strong winds in the coming days.
Source: Ekathimerini.
