Rethymno wildfire remains out of control; massive destruction

The wildfire burning on the island of Crete continues, with the blaze in the municipality of Agios Vasileios in Rethymno developing into an extremely challenging battle as multiple fronts remain active and strong winds continue to fuel flare-ups.

At first light, ground forces were further reinforced. A total of 224 firefighters are operating in the area, supported by 11 specialist wildfire teams from the 3rd, 19th and 6th Special Forest Operation Units (EMODE), 53 vehicles and two helicopters. However, gale-force winds have so far prevented aircraft from taking part in the operation.

The firefighting effort is also being supported by water tankers and machinery from Civil Protection authorities, the regional administration and municipalities, as well as dozens of volunteers and residents attempting to protect their properties.

Critical situation

The situation remains critical, with authorities keeping all forces on heightened alert after a series of 112 emergency messages were issued overnight ordering further precautionary evacuations.

The situation in Sitia seems to have improved, where the fire has been contained in a remote mountainous area and is no longer threatening residential zones.

(ΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ ΑΓΓΕΛΑΚΗΣ / EUROKINISSI)Wildfire in Lesvos

Meanwhile, the firefighting operation remains fully underway in Plomari, Lesvos, where a wildfire that broke out on Wednesday afternoon continues to challenge crews due to strong winds.

A total of 92 firefighters are operating in the area, along with five specialist ground teams from the 2nd and 12th EMODE units, volunteers and 19 fire engines, while one helicopter is assisting from the air.

The operation is also being supported by water tankers from the Municipality of Western Lesvos, while police and Hellenic Coast Guard forces remain on standby.

Conditions remain difficult, with winds reaching up to 6 Beaufort and gusts of up to 7 Beaufort. Lesvos is currently under a very high wildfire risk alert (risk category 4).

Greece’s 112 emergency alert system was activated twice on Wednesday: initially to warn people in the wider wildfire area and later with an evacuation message, instructing residents of Plomari to move toward Plomari beach in the direction of Agios Isidoros.

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