Mass Evacuations Underway as Wildfires Tear Through Greece’s Crete Island

Mass Evacuations Underway as Wildfires Tear Through Greece’s Crete Island

Mass Evacuations Underway as Wildfires Tear Through Greece’s Crete Island

Mass Evacuations Underway as Wildfires Tear Through Greece's Crete Island
Image from CBS News

Thousands of residents and tourists are being evacuated from the southern Greek island of Crete as out-of-control wildfires continue to rage, fueled by gale-force winds. The popular tourist destination declared a state of emergency after blazes erupted on Wednesday afternoon near Ierapetra, on the island’s southern coast, rapidly spreading across multiple fronts.

Approximately 5,000 people, predominantly international tourists, have been moved from hotels and residential areas overnight. Evacuees are currently sheltering at a sports venue in Ierapetra and other secure locations across the island. Four villages—Ferma, Katharades, Koutsounari, and Kakia Skala—have been ordered to evacuate, with the fire service reporting active fronts at Achlia, Ferma, and Skinokapsala.

Over 230 firefighters, supported by 10 water-dropping helicopters, are battling the intense flames, which are advancing through forests and farmlands. Gusts reaching up to 50 miles per hour are creating new outbreaks, severely hindering containment efforts. All hospitals on Crete have been placed on high alert as a precautionary measure, though no serious injuries have been reported, with only a few individuals treated for breathing difficulties.

The coast guard has facilitated some evacuations by boat and remains on standby for further sea operations. Authorities have issued urgent mobile phone alerts, urging residents not to return to their properties. The risk of wildfires remains critically high across Crete and southern Greece, as the country grapples with frequent blazes during its hot, dry summer months.

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