A major wildfire has been burning out of control on the Greek Aegean island of Paros, forcing authorities to order precautionary evacuations as firefighters struggle to contain the flames amid strong winds and extreme heat.
The fire broke out on July 28 near the island’s landfill in the central Kambi area and quickly spread through dry vegetation, driven by powerful winds and hot, dry conditions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Greek media.
Overnight, the blaze moved through the southwestern area of Agkairia and advanced towards Trypiti after passing through Aneratza and Kamari.
Emergency alerts were sent through Greece’s 112 system, instructing residents in Agkairia to evacuate to Alyki beach. Further evacuation orders were later issued for Trypiti, Aspro Horio, Glyfa and Pyrgaki, with residents directed to move to the southeastern coastal village of Dryos.
There were no immediate reports that the wildfire had reached residential areas.
Firefighting operations resumed at dawn, with two aircraft and five helicopters deployed for aerial water drops. One of the helicopters was being used to coordinate the operation, while additional aircraft remained on standby.
A force of 66 firefighters, four forest commando teams and 16 fire engines were involved in the response, supported by volunteers, municipal water tankers and heavy machinery. Reinforcements arrived from nearby islands including Syros and Naxos, as well as from Athens, while a further 20 firefighters and eight fire engines were expected to arrive by ferry from Rafina.
Paros Mayor Konstantinos Bizas described the situation as “very difficult,” saying crews had been fighting the flames continuously.
Fire officials said their main overnight priority was preventing the blaze from reaching Agkairia, where the largest firefighting deployment was concentrated. Another active fire front was reported near the Franga area.
Authorities warned that stronger winds forecast for July 29 could make efforts to bring the wildfire under control even more challenging.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
