Two Chios villages were evacuated earlier today

The Fire Service has warned residents of two villages on the island of Chios to evacuate because of a nearby wildfire.

The message to residents of the inland villages Diefcha and Katavasi, on the northwestern part of the island, was issued after midnight Sunday.

They were directed to Volissos, the largest village on this part of the island, some 40 kilometres away from the main town of Chios.

The situation is under control by local authorities. The spread has been contained, and the flames have not reached any nearby populace.