Major wildfires continue to engulf areas in Achaia, Kefalonia, Preveza, and Chios, raising serious concerns for residential zones and natural habitats. The situation is worsened by strong winds reaching 6-8 Beaufort, hampering firefighting efforts and fueling the rapid spread of fires.
33 Aircraft and Coordinated Response Efforts
A total of 33 aerial firefighting units support ground crews engaged in a difficult battle against multiple fire fronts and frequent flare-ups. Despite heroic efforts, emergency 112 alerts keep urging residents in danger zones to evacuate, pushing the number of displaced people to several thousands since yesterday.
Achaia: Flames Threaten Residential Areas
In Achaia, at least two urgent 112 alerts were issued, with the latest warning residents in the Bala area to relocate towards Patras. Firefighters face renewed blazes near homes in Vounteni, while one front approaches the Xyta Xerolakka landfill, raising fears of hazardous fuel exposure or explosion. In Sychaina, flames are advancing dangerously close to urban neighborhoods.
Preveza: Continuous Evacuations and Severe Damage
The fire situation in Preveza remains critical, with fresh 112 alerts ordering evacuations from villages such as Gorgomylos and Vathy toward safer zones. At least 10 houses have been destroyed, with livestock farms and beekeeping operations suffering major losses. Seventeen communities remain without electricity or water supply, exacerbating the crisis.
Chios: Two Uncontrolled Fronts Prompt Evacuations
In Chios, firefighters are confronting two active fire fronts between Spartounta and Chalandra, with winds reaching 6 Beaufort. A 112 alert has been issued for Kampia residents to move toward Kardamyla, while villages in the Volissos area have already been evacuated. Significant damage to crops and properties is reported.
Zakynthos: Improved Conditions but Vigilance Needed
Conditions on Zakynthos have improved somewhat, with remaining fire hotspots reduced to isolated areas near Lithakiaand Keri. Firefighters’ use of backburning tactics has helped protect inhabited areas. Power has been restored to Lithakia, although the island has already lost approximately 15,000 hectares of land to the flames.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis at the Coordination Center
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the National Coordination Center at the Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, presiding over a cross-ministerial and inter-agency meeting. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting firefighting operations and safeguarding citizens.
Greece faces a critical challenge as wildfires threaten lives, properties, and the environment. The coordinated response of firefighting units, timely 112 warnings, and political resolve are essential to prevent further devastation.
Residents in affected regions are urged to stay alert and follow official evacuation orders, as adverse weather conditions persist.
Source: pagenews.gr