A wildfire has forced hundreds of residents to flee their homes on the Greek island of Evia, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
The fast-moving flames erupted on Friday night, burning through forests and threatening villages. Firefighters battled through the night to contain the blaze, which comes as Europe struggles with an intense heatwave.
Villagers Ordered To Leave As Blaze Spreads
Emergency officials ordered the immediate evacuation of Tsakeoi and Limnionas, two villages in southern Evia, as flames crept dangerously close.
More than 160 firefighters, 46 trucks, and five aircraft were deployed to the scene. Residents described a terrifying rush to escape as strong winds fanned the flames.
One evacuee said, “We just grabbed what we could and ran. The smoke was everywhere.”
Heatwave Blamed As Wildfires Rage Across Greece
The wildfire on Evia isn’t an isolated case. Across Greece, emergency services have been stretched thin as soaring temperatures and dry conditions trigger more fires.
Crete, another tourist hotspot, also saw serious damage earlier this week. The Greek weather service warned that temperatures could hit 38°C (100°F), making conditions ripe for more disasters.
Experts say fires like this are becoming more common as the Mediterranean faces hotter, drier summers.
Concerns Rise Over Greece’s Fire Preparedness
As the flames continue, residents and officials are questioning whether enough has been done to prevent these yearly disasters.
Many locals accuse authorities of failing to prepare for the wildfire risks, especially during the summer tourism season.
Greece’s wildfire problem isn’t new—but this year’s fires have reignited fears over how climate change is worsening the situation.
