Three-Day Major Fire Near Rethymno on Crete Ravages the Area.
Three-Day Major Fire Near Rethymno Ravages the Area
Table of Contents
A major fire has been raging near Rethymno, Crete for three days, prompting evacuations and causing widespread destruction. The wildfire started on Wednesday in the wider region of the municipalities of Amari and Aghios Vassilio, south of Rethymnon on the island of Crete. Despite the efforts of over 200 firefighters, the fire has remained out of control due to powerful winds, making their work extremely difficult.
Authorities were forced to evacuate several villages and settlements, including the small village of Agia Paraskevi, as a precaution. The situation remains under control as firefighting efforts continue, but the risk of further damage and destruction remains high. The extent of the damage caused by the fire is not yet clear, but it is expected to be significant given the scale and intensity of the blaze.
The fire near Rethymno is just one of several major wildfires that have plagued Greece and Turkey this summer. Scores of firefighters and water-bombing aircraft have been deployed to tackle the blazes, but the risk of further fires remains high due to the hot and dry weather conditions. The situation is being monitored closely by authorities, who are urging residents to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their homes.
Chronology of the Wildfire
Initial Outbreak
On Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, a wildfire broke out in the wider region of the municipalities of Amari and Aghios Vassilio south of Rethymnon on the island of Crete. The fire quickly spread, fueled by strong winds, and soon threatened several villages and settlements in the area. The local authorities immediately issued evacuation orders for the affected areas and called for assistance from neighbouring municipalities.
Evacuation Efforts
The evacuation efforts were carried out by the local authorities with the assistance of the Greek Army and the Hellenic Police. The authorities used loudspeakers and text alerts to inform the residents of the affected areas to evacuate immediately. The residents were advised to take only essential items with them and to proceed to designated safe zones. The evacuation process was challenging, given the rugged terrain and the strong winds, which made it difficult for the residents to move quickly and safely.
Firefighting Response
The firefighting response was led by the Hellenic Fire Service, which deployed hundreds of firefighters, aircraft, and helicopters to combat the blaze. The firefighters used bulldozers and water tankers to create firebreaks and contain the fire’s spread. The aircraft and helicopters dropped water and fire retardants on the fire to extinguish it from the air. However, the firefighting efforts were hampered by the strong winds, which made it difficult for the aircraft and helicopters to operate effectively.
Despite the firefighters’ best efforts, the fire continued to rage for three days, destroying thousands of hectares of forest and farmland. The local authorities declared a state of emergency and called for assistance from neighbouring municipalities and the central government.
Source: Greek Reporter
Source: Keep Talking Greece
Source: To Vima
Impact on Local Communities
Evacuated Villages
The major fire near Rethymno has forced several villages to evacuate. The village of Melabes, located in Agios Vasilios, was evacuated by order of Mayor Giannis Tatarakis via the 112 emergency text alert. In total, six villages have been evacuated as the fire continues to rage on. The residents have been temporarily displaced and are being accommodated in nearby towns.
Damage Assessment
The extent of the damage caused by the fire is still being assessed. According to the search results, the fire threatens local businesses and warehouses. There have been reports of homes being destroyed, but the exact number is not yet known. The firefighting efforts have been challenging due to the strong winds blowing with intensity of up to 8 Beaufort, making fire-extinction work extremely difficult.
There have been no reports of injuries so far, but the situation is being closely monitored. The authorities are working tirelessly to contain the fire and prevent any further damage.
Environmental Concerns
Vegetation Loss
The major fire near Rethymno has resulted in significant vegetation loss. Olive groves, forests, and scrubland have been affected by the fire. The extent of the damage to the vegetation is still being assessed, but it is clear that the loss is significant.
The loss of vegetation has a significant impact on the local ecosystem. Plants play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for animals, help regulate the water cycle, and reduce soil erosion. The loss of vegetation can have long-term consequences that can take years to recover.
Forest Fire Dynamics
Forest fires are a common occurrence in the Mediterranean region, and they can have a devastating impact on the environment. The major fire near Rethymno was caused by a combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. These conditions created the perfect environment for the fire to spread quickly.
The spread of the fire was also influenced by the type of vegetation in the area. Olive groves, which are common in the region, are highly flammable and can act as a fuel for the fire. The fire also spread quickly through the forested areas, which provided additional fuel for the fire.
Public Administration and Emergency Services Response
Fire Service Strategy
The Fire Service has been working tirelessly to contain the major fire that has been raging near Rethymno for the past three days. The strategy has been to create firebreaks, which are areas where vegetation has been removed to prevent the spread of the fire. This has involved the use of heavy machinery and hand tools to clear the area.
The Fire Service has also been using helicopters and planes to drop water on the fire from above. This has been particularly effective in areas that are difficult to access by ground crews.
Civil Protection Measures
The government has implemented a number of civil protection measures to help those affected by the fire. The mayor of Rethymno has set up an emergency shelter for those who have been evacuated from their homes. The police have also been assisting with the evacuation process.
The Minister of Civil Protection has been closely monitoring the situation and has been in regular contact with the Fire Service. The government has also issued a warning to residents in the area to stay indoors and keep their windows closed to avoid inhaling smoke.
Investigation and Prevention
Arson Investigation
The cause of the major fire near Rethymno that lasted for three days remains unknown, but an arson investigation team has been dispatched to the scene to determine whether the fire was started deliberately. The fire brigade chief has ordered the investigation, and the team will work to find any evidence of arson. If the investigation determines that the fire was started deliberately, the perpetrator will be held accountable for the damage caused.
Future Fire Risk Mitigation
In light of the recent major fire near Rethymno, local authorities are taking steps to mitigate the risk of future fires. Firefighters are working to clear brush and other potential fuel sources in the area, and the police are increasing patrols to prevent any potential arson attempts. Additionally, emergency messages are being sent out to local residents, urging them to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity they may see.
Risk of forest fires remains high in Greece: arsonists face severe penalties
Greece is currently experiencing a high risk of forest fires, with 30 wildfires breaking out in just 24 hours earlier this week. The wildfires have caused significant damage to olive groves, livestock, and beehives in affected areas. The recent wildfires have also put homes and lives in danger, leading to evacuations in some areas.
The Greek government has taken a strong stance against arsonists, with severe penalties in place for those caught starting fires. Even those who cause fires due to negligence can face up to 10 years in prison. Those who intentionally start fires can face up to 20 years of imprisonment. In recent weeks, several individuals have been arrested for suspected arson.
The Greek government has also implemented laws requiring property owners to clear their land of dry vegetation, which can contribute to the spread of fires. Failure to comply with these laws can result in the government clearing the land at the owner’s expense and imposing fines.
Despite the efforts of firefighters and law enforcement, the risk of forest fires remains high in Greece. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Source:
Wildfires in Greece: 240 Foreign Firefighters to Be Deployed
Greece is currently battling numerous wildfires, which have been exacerbated by high drought and unusually high winds for this season. As a result, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has warned that this year’s summer is predicted to be ‘particularly dangerous’ for wildfires. To help combat these wildfires, two hundred and forty firefighters from Bulgaria, Malta, Moldova and Romania will be deployed this summer alongside their Greek colleagues. The deployment is part of a program implemented for the third year via the European Civil Protection Mechanism, and the European firefighters, with staffed firefighting vehicles, will be deployed from early July to mid-September at three bases of operations, in Attica, Thessaloniki and Achaia.
The length of stay of firefighters in Greece will be longer this year – 2.5 months, from two in previous years. The first foreign team from Bulgaria was already in the country and was stationed in the northern city of Thessaloniki, while a second team of 15 from Malta was due to arrive mid-month and will be stationed in southern Greece, the country’s Civil Protection Ministry said.
This year, Greece has already started participating in the program with a group of 25 forest commanders deployed in southern France on June 15-30. The deployment of foreign firefighters comes as 36 wildfires broke out across the country in the 24 hours from Monday to Tuesday afternoon, with the vast majority tackled in their early stages. Scores of people were evacuated from hotels and homes on the eastern Aegean islands of Kos and Chios as ground forces and water-dropping aircraft battled two large forest fires. Five people were reportedly slightly injured – four firefighters and one volunteer – while one man was arrested in Chios and fined more than 8,000 euros for allegedly causing the wildfire there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the causes of the recent blaze in the Rethymno region?
The exact cause of the fire in the Rethymno region is not yet known. However, wildfires are common in Greece during the summer months, and it is believed that the recent high temperatures and strong winds may have contributed to the spread of the fire.
How has the fire near Rethymno affected local communities and wildlife?
The fire has caused significant damage to the local ecosystem, with many trees and plants destroyed. It has also affected local communities, with some residents forced to evacuate their homes. The full extent of the damage is not yet known, but it is clear that the fire has had a significant impact on the area.
What measures are being taken to control the fire in Rethymno?
The Greek Fire Service, along with other emergency services, has been working tirelessly to control the blaze. Hundreds of firefighters have been deployed to the area, and water-dumping aircraft have been used to try and extinguish the flames. The Fire Service has reported that the fire has been largely contained, although there are still some active fronts.
Are there any evacuation orders currently in place due to the Rethymno fire?
As of the latest reports, there are no new evacuation orders currently in place due to the Rethymno fire. However, residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and follow the advice of emergency services.
How can individuals and businesses contribute to relief efforts for those affected by the Rethymno fire?
Individuals and businesses can contribute to relief efforts by donating to local charities and organisations that are working to support those affected by the fire. It is important to ensure that any donations are made to reputable organisations.
What are the long-term implications of the Rethymno fire on the area’s ecosystem?
The long-term implications of the fire on the area’s ecosystem are not yet clear. It is likely that the fire will have a significant impact on the local environment, with some species of plants and animals potentially being lost. It may take years for the ecosystem to fully recover from the damage caused by the fire.
The fire remains out of control – The entire southern part of the municipality is evacuated. Nine villages were evacuated: Agia Paraskevi, Platanos, Apodoulou, Vathiko, Lochria, Adrachtos, Rizikas, Satta and Hordaki. The village of Apodoulou was saved from the fire.
At the same time, the damage to agriculture and livestock is incalculable, as large areas of olive trees (80% of olive trees have been destroyed), vineyards, fields, bees and animals were destroyed by the fire.
The forces deployed to fight the fire have been reinforced from Athens, Rhodes and Elefsina.
kaló savvatokyriako – καλό σαββατοκύριακο, kv