The wildfire, which erupted in rugged terrain close to Ierapetra, has now expanded over a stretch of 6km and is rapidly encroaching on populated areas, forcing authorities to evacuate around 1,500 individuals from hotels and homes.
Emergency personnel reported that winds of up to Beaufort 8 are intensifying the blaze, shrouding the region in thick smoke and reducing visibility. Local police have closed major roads, urging citizens to avoid travel due to air quality dangers and the threat of falling ashes.
The settlement of Agia Fotia has faced the brunt of destruction, with homes lost to the flames and power outages affecting the area. At least four elderly individuals have been hospitalized for respiratory issues stemming from smoke inhalation, prompting health authorities to place all hospitals in Crete on alert.
Authorities have mobilized significant firefighting resources, with 155 firefighters supported by specialized teams and fire engines dedicated to combating the flames. Helicopters have also participated in water drops throughout the efforts.
As the fire's intensity increases, tactical decisions have been made to withdrawal from certain fire fronts to safeguard personnel and create firebreaks. Emergency alerts via the 112 warning system have been essential in instructing evacuations from at-risk settlements. Individuals trapped in cutoff locations are being evacuated by boat from local beaches to safety.
This wildfire in Greece comes amid a broader context of severe weather across Europe, where other nations, including Turkey, have also seen evacuations due to rampant wildfires. The continent is currently grappling with heat-related fatalities as summer temperatures reach alarming levels.
Emergency personnel reported that winds of up to Beaufort 8 are intensifying the blaze, shrouding the region in thick smoke and reducing visibility. Local police have closed major roads, urging citizens to avoid travel due to air quality dangers and the threat of falling ashes.
The settlement of Agia Fotia has faced the brunt of destruction, with homes lost to the flames and power outages affecting the area. At least four elderly individuals have been hospitalized for respiratory issues stemming from smoke inhalation, prompting health authorities to place all hospitals in Crete on alert.
Authorities have mobilized significant firefighting resources, with 155 firefighters supported by specialized teams and fire engines dedicated to combating the flames. Helicopters have also participated in water drops throughout the efforts.
As the fire's intensity increases, tactical decisions have been made to withdrawal from certain fire fronts to safeguard personnel and create firebreaks. Emergency alerts via the 112 warning system have been essential in instructing evacuations from at-risk settlements. Individuals trapped in cutoff locations are being evacuated by boat from local beaches to safety.
This wildfire in Greece comes amid a broader context of severe weather across Europe, where other nations, including Turkey, have also seen evacuations due to rampant wildfires. The continent is currently grappling with heat-related fatalities as summer temperatures reach alarming levels.
