Wildfire Ignites and Spreads Rapidly

A major wildfire erupted on Wednesday afternoon in the rugged, forested terrain near Ierapetra, Crete. Gale-force winds quickly intensified the flames, which soon threatened homes, tourist accommodations, and vital infrastructure—including a fuel station.

The fire front now stretches over 6 kilometers, making containment increasingly challenging as thick smoke blankets the area and severely reduces visibility.

Mass Evacuations and Emergency Shelter

Authorities ordered the evacuation of hotels, rental properties, and homes in the Ferma municipality as flames closed in. Assisted by firefighters, police, and volunteers, around 1,500 people—including many tourists—were relocated to safety in Ierapetra, with about 200 evacuees temporarily housed in the town’s indoor sports arena.

Smoke from the blaze has drifted as far as Makry Gialos beach, 10 kilometers from the original outbreak.

Hazards, Health Risks, and Infrastructure Damage

Police have shut down the main road near Agia Fotia and warned against all non-essential travel due to poor air quality, extreme heat, and falling ash. In Agia Fotia, homes and rental properties have been destroyed, and the community faces a power outage.

At least four elderly residents were hospitalized for respiratory issues linked to smoke inhalation. As a precaution, all hospitals on Crete have been placed on high alert by health officials.

Firefighting Efforts Intensify

By Wednesday night, the firefighting response had grown to 155 firefighters, eight specialist foot teams, and 38 fire engines, supported by four helicopters making water drops until dark. Additional forces—including teams from Piraeus and Elefsina—are being deployed.

Local authorities have supplied water tankers and heavy machinery to aid efforts. As fire crews focused on building firebreaks to protect settlements, emergency alerts urged residents and tourists in affected areas to evacuate towards Ierapetra, with some stranded individuals evacuated by boat from beaches.

Wider Impact and Regional Context

The fire continues to burn fiercely between Agia Fotia and Skinokapsala, fueled by dense forests, steep terrain, dry conditions, and relentless winds. Earlier this week, over 50,000 people were evacuated from Turkey’s Izmir province due to wildfires.

Across Europe, a severe early-summer heatwave has claimed at least six lives in Spain, Italy, and France, highlighting the broader climate crisis gripping the region.

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