Firefighters battled multiple major wildfire fronts throughout the night in Rethymno, Sitia and Plomari, as strong winds and extreme temperatures continued to fuel dangerous fire conditions across Greece.
Hundreds of firefighters, supported by aerial and ground resources, worked relentlessly to contain the blazes and prevent flames from reaching residential areas, while authorities issued evacuation orders for several communities as a precaution.
Tragedy in Rethymno
The most severe wildfire erupted in southern Rethymno, Crete, where two firefighters lost their lives after becoming trapped by the fast-moving flames during firefighting operations.
The blaze spread rapidly due to strong winds, prompting emergency evacuation orders for villages including Triopetra, Agios Georgios, Agios Pavlos, Sakhtouria, Melampes and Krya Vrysi. More than 150 firefighters, assisted by fire engines, aircraft and helicopters, continued battling the fire through the night.
Critical Situation in Sitia
In eastern Crete, firefighters also faced a difficult battle near Sitia, where strong winds repeatedly reignited active fire fronts.
Several firefighting units remained deployed overnight to protect nearby communities, while aerial resources resumed operations at first light. During the operation, two firefighters sustained minor burns after being briefly surrounded by flames, and two fire engines were destroyed.
Fire Threatens Plomari on Lesvos
On the island of Lesvos, the wildfire near Plomari continued to burn on multiple fronts, forcing authorities to order precautionary evacuations in areas considered at risk.
Ground crews, supported by aircraft, focused on preventing the fire from spreading toward populated areas amid difficult weather conditions. During the operation, one firefighter was injured and transferred to hospital after suffering a leg injury.
High Fire Risk Remains
Fire authorities warned that extreme wildfire danger persists across several regions of Greece due to high temperatures, prolonged drought and powerful winds.
Emergency services remain on heightened alert, with additional firefighting forces positioned in vulnerable areas as authorities urge residents to follow official instructions and evacuation alerts whenever necessary.