Firefighters are working tirelessly to control several wildfires raging across Chios, a prominent tourist island in the Aegean Sea, prompting officials to declare a state of emergency and evacuate numerous communities. The blazes, reported to have ignited on Sunday in Kofina, Agia Anna, and Agios Makarios Vrontadon, have mobilized an impressive contingent of more than 190 firefighters, with additional reinforcements expected to arrive shortly, according to reports from state media.
The Greek Fire Service mentioned that 13 helicopters and four firefighting planes have been deployed to tackle the flames, while Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Giannis Kefalogiannis, remarked, "The situation on the island since yesterday has been quite difficult because we continuously face new fronts and resurgences, compounded by unfavorable climatic conditions."
Chios, a large island typically crowded with tourists during the summer, is experiencing dire conditions as extreme heat and strong winds have created a fire-prone environment, facilitating rapid fire spread. Experts have noted a concerning increase in wildfire frequency and intensity across Greece in recent years, often attributed to climate change-induced factors.
In anticipation of this year's severe fire season, authorities had prepared extensively, deploying a record number of firefighting personnel during the early spring. Measures taken have included enhanced fire patrols, thermal imaging drones, and an investment of over 2 billion euros in advanced fire detection technology.
As the fires progressed, officials have taken to sending additional firefighting units to Chios via boat and air. The Directorate to Investigate Arson Crimes has also dispatched a team to examine the circumstances surrounding the outbreaks, especially since the three fires ignited in quick succession, suggesting possible malicious intent.
With the firefighting efforts active and urgent, communities remain on high alert, hoping for containment and safety amidst the ongoing crisis.
