Wildfires in Greece Subsiding
After nearly two weeks of blazing infernos, the wildfires in Greece have finally subsided, but emergency services continue to work diligently to prevent new outbreaks in the central part of the country. Residents in the affected region were forced to evacuate due to powerful explosions at an ammunition depot, as reported by Reuters.
The fires in Greece began on July 17th, resulting in the loss of five lives. Homes, farms, and factories were destroyed, and vast areas of forest were reduced to ashes.
The hardest-hit area, Magnesia, faced particular challenges when the forest fires reached an ammunition depot of the Air Force near the coastal town of Nea-Anchialos. The fire at the depot led to strong explosions, forcing local residents to evacuate either by land or by sea to Volos, the regional capital. The powerful shockwave from the explosions shattered windows in several shops at a considerable distance.
In the interest of safety, the fighters based at a neighboring military airbase were relocated to another location.
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announced that an investigation into the incident has been ordered.
Despite the heroic efforts of firefighters, the blaze in the larger part of Volos and Anchialos remains uncontained, according to a spokesperson from the firefighting brigade, Ioannis Artopoyos.
Dozens of firefighters are continuing their efforts in the area, supported by five aircraft and helicopters, as the strong winds could lead to new flare-ups, as stated by the firefighting service.
The Ministry of Labor urged employers in the industrial zone of Volos to suspend work on Friday.
As for the island of Rhodes, the forest fires have subsided after consuming around 10% of its territory, forcing over 20,000 tourists and local residents to evacuate their coastal hotels and homes over the weekend. However, firefighting teams have been battling multiple fronts for the 11th day, striving to fully extinguish the flames.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the need for Greece to take further action in addressing the consequences of climate change and improving fire prevention measures.