Greece Wildfires Extinguished; Turkiye Reports Two Deaths Amid Ongoing Blazes

As of Friday, July 4, 2025, major wildfires that forced thousands to evacuate across Greece have largely been extinguished or brought under control, with no casualties reported in the country. However, neighboring Turkiye continues to battle extensive blazes, which have tragically claimed two lives.

On the Greek island of Crete, a massive wildfire near Ierapetra that prompted the evacuation of 5,000 residents and tourists on Wednesday evening has been successfully put out. Firefighting efforts involving 230 personnel and six helicopters ensured no active fire fronts remained by Friday morning, though crews continue to monitor for flare-ups. The blaze caused damage to forests and olive groves but spared human lives.

Similarly, a fire near the port town of Rafina, east of Athens, which led to 300 evacuations and destroyed several homes and vehicles, was brought under control on Thursday evening. Strong winds initially fanned the flames, disrupting ferry services to popular tourist islands. Firefighting teams remain on high alert as winds persist.

Meanwhile, Turkiye has confirmed two fatalities amidst its own widespread wildfire crisis. A forestry worker died while combating a fire near Odemis, and an 81-year-old resident succumbed to smoke inhalation. These are the first recorded deaths in a series of blazes that have forced thousands to flee. Firefighters, supported by air assets, are actively battling a significant wildfire near the Aegean coastal town of Cesme, which began on Wednesday, leading to neighborhood evacuations and road closures. Over the past week, hundreds of wildfires fueled by extreme heat, strong winds, and low humidity have damaged or destroyed approximately 200 homes across Turkiye.

Both Greece and Turkiye are accustomed to hot, dry summers conducive to wildfires. Experts warn that climate change is intensifying these conditions, making devastating summer blazes an increasingly common threat in the region, even as Greece anticipates a significant heatwave with temperatures soaring up to 43 degrees Celsius this weekend.

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