Wildfires have broken out on the Greek islands of Kos and Chios, leading to emergency alerts and evacuations for both locals and tourists. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has warned of the heightened wildfire risk in the summer of 2024, while fire departments, volunteer firefighters, and drones are engaged in combating the blazes.
Wildfires Strike Greek Islands and Prompt Evacuations
Wildfires have erupted on the Greek islands of Kos and Chios, prompting emergency alerts and precautions for locals and tourists. On the island of Kos, a Welsh holidaymaker received an emergency alert at 2.30 pm local time on July 1, 2024, warning them to move from Kardamena to Antimachia. The atmosphere was heavily laden with smoke and ash, with helicopters seen filling up with water from the sea to combat the fire.
By 5 pm, the sky was filled with white smoke. The tourist reported that there was no immediate directive to evacuate their hotel, although the situation remained tense. The alert advised tourists to stay informed through hotel reception teams who were in touch with local authorities.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the summer of 2024 is expected to be particularly dangerous for wildfires. On the island of Chios, evacuation orders were issued for the Metohi area, urging people to head to nearby beaches for safety.
Fire departments across Greece, supported by volunteer firefighters and drones for early detection, continue to battle the fires. Emergency alerts and evacuation orders remain in place as authorities work to control the blazes fanned by high temperatures and strong winds.
