Firefighters battle fires in Kos, Chios and Crete

08:01 2/7/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Firefighters in Greece battled overnight to contain wildfires raging on the islands of Kos, Chios, and Crete, popular destinations for British tourists seeking summer sun.

The situation on Kos and Chios has reportedly improved since yesterday, with aerial firefighting efforts resuming at daybreak.

The

fire on Kos, while intense, appears to be somewhat under control this morning.

Overnight, the Kos fire, which broke out yesterday in the Portes Antimacheias area near Kardamaina, has subsided, according to local authorities. Firefighters worked tirelessly to encircle the remaining hotspots and create firebreaks.

Over 100 firefighters, supported by aircraft and helicopters, are battling the blaze. The fire, which extends from the old quarry area to Kardamaina, opposite the Antimacheia castle, has reportedly damaged homes and surrounding areas, particularly in Kardamaina.

Residents and tourists were safely evacuated yesterday to public spaces, schools, stadiums, and hotels in Antimacheia, Mastichari, and Marmari. No residential areas have been threatened.

Emergency alerts were sent to those in Kardamaina, urging them to evacuate towards Antimacheia. Buses, provided by local authorities, transported evacuees to schools and a local stadium.

In Chios, firefighters continue to battle the blaze that erupted in Sidirounta. The situation appears better than during the night, with the fire's intensity diminishing, authorities say. While the fire is still active in a mountainous area, it has not threatened any homes.

Six people, including five firefighters and a retired firefighter, sustained minor injuries during the firefighting efforts in Chios.

Authorities have arrested a 63-year-old man in connection with the Chios fire and imposed a substantial fine.

The ongoing wildfires pose a significant challenge for Greece during its peak tourist season, raising concerns about the safety of visitors and the impact on the local economy.

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