The forest fire in South Rhodes is continuing to burn, despite the efforts of the Fire Brigade all weekend long. The fire, which broke out in a known deer shelter, has a front of about 2 kilometers long.
Fortunately the strong winds subsided earlier on Monday. So no homes are at risk anymore. Over the weekend the flames threatened the villages Istrios, Profilia, Apolakkia, Vati, Gennadi, Lahania and Arnithia, so the Fire Brigade quickly set up fire protection zones around them.
The earliest estimations suggest that about 30,000 acres of the forest in the island’s south have been burned. The fire broke out in the greater Istria region and burned down one house. The Fire Brigade received support in manpower and vehicles from Mainland Greece, Peloponnesus and Central Macedonia.
Tourists an locals flee towards the sea in Serifos
In Serifos a fire broke out near Agia Marina and quickly spread across the hill due to the high winds, forcing residents and tourists alike to seek refuge by the coast. While some got on boats, others found shelter on the beach beneath the cliffs. Reports indicate that one house and an abandoned building were damaged. The Fire Brigade was supported by two aircraft and a helicopter.
Reignition in Crete
The fire that broke out in Mesara near Heraklion has reignited overnight, after being set under partial control on Sunday. Helicopters were even called in to help protect the Pigaidakia settlement. So far the fire has destroyed crops, warehouses and green houses. The Fire Brigade will attempt to restrict the fire, despite the strong winds.
