Wildfires are raging on the Greek island of Crete, fueled by strong winds, and hundreds of people have already been forced to evacuate, the BBC reports.
The flames broke out in a mountainous forest area near Ierapetra on the afternoon of the 2nd of July and spread rapidly, threatening homes, tourist accommodation and critical infrastructure, including a petrol station. The fire has now spread for at least six kilometres, making it extremely difficult to contain it. Thick clouds of smoke have blanketed a large area, in some places reducing visibility to almost nothing.
Authorities in the municipality of Ferma have ordered the evacuation of hotels, rental apartments and houses. The fire service, police and local volunteers are helping to organise the evacuation. Around 1,500 people have been evacuated from the area; they have been moved to Ierapetra. About 200 people are being housed in the city’s sports arena.
Smoke from the fire has also reached the beach about ten kilometers from where firefighters are trying to control the flames.
Police have also closed the main road next to the beach village of Agia Fotia, and residents and visitors have been asked to avoid unnecessary travel due to critical air quality, high heat and falling ash. Buildings in the village have been destroyed and electricity has been cut off in the area. At least four elderly residents have been taken to hospital after suffering from smoke inhalation. As a precaution, authorities have ordered all hospitals in Crete to be on high alert.
In the early hours of Wednesday, the 3rd of July, 155 firefighters were battling the blaze: eight specialist infantry teams and 38 fire engines. Four helicopters were used to help from the air, and local authorities have deployed their own water tankers and heavy equipment. Additional assistance is also on the way.
Mass warnings have been sent out on the 112 system, urging residents and tourists to head towards Ierapetra. It is reported that people who could no longer reach safety by road have been evacuated from the beaches.
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