Greek firefighters are battling a fast-moving wildfire on the island of Crete, which erupted Wednesday and quickly spread due to strong winds. The fire burned forest areas, damaged homes, and forced evacuations in at least four settlements in the southeastern Ierapetra region.
According to the fire brigade, 155 firefighters supported by 38 fire engines and water trucks were working to contain the flames. Authorities sent more reinforcements by air and sea from Athens, as gale-force winds continued to fuel the fire and hinder efforts to control it.
“It is a very difficult fire and it is still in progress,” a fire official told Reuters, noting that the rough terrain and strong winds made firefighting even more challenging. Local TV reports confirmed some homes had already been damaged, although no injuries have been reported so far.
Authorities ordered the evacuation of Achlia and three nearby areas, relocating around 3,000 residents and tourists to temporary shelters. Emergency teams were seen assisting elderly people and families with children as they fled the smoke-filled zones.
Greece frequently faces wildfires during its hot, dry summers, but officials say climate change is intensifying the scale and speed of such blazes. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns have made wildfires more destructive and harder to manage in recent years.
Meanwhile, firefighters are also tackling wildfires on the islands of Kythira and in northern Chalkidiki, where flames continue to rage uncontrollably. Greek authorities remain on high alert, urging the public to follow evacuation orders and safety instructions.