Wildfires Prompt Evacuations on Greece’s Second-Largest Island

 

Wildfires have once again ravaged the island of Evia, Greece’s second-largest island, prompting authorities to order multiple evacuations. The blaze, which began near the village of Petries, has been fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, making it difficult for firefighters to contain.

Hundreds of firefighters, supported by helicopters and water-carrying planes, have been battling the fire for two days. The situation remains precarious, with flare-ups expected due to the windy conditions. The fire has already led to the evacuation of several villages, and a coastguard vessel is on standby for possible sea evacuations.

Evia has a history of devastating wildfires, with significant damage occurring in 2021 and last summer. The current fire follows a series of heatwaves across southern Europe, exacerbating the already dry conditions. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has warned that the country faces a challenging summer ahead, with August expected to bring more difficult conditions.

The fire service has rated the risk of fire in several areas of Greece as very high, including parts of Central Greece, the Peloponnese, Thessaly, and the islands of the north Aegean. As the firefighting efforts continue, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared for further evacuations if necessary.