A fierce wildfire continues to burn in the Kallianos area of Karystos, Evia, while another blaze in Agios Nikitas, Lefkada, has been brought under partial control, authorities reported on Monday.
The incidents, which erupted on Sunday, have mobilised emergency response teams and prompted evacuation alerts via Greece’s 112 emergency system.
Evia: Firefighters Struggle Against Winds and Terrain
The fire in Evia broke out late Sunday evening in the rugged, hard-to-reach Piliouri area of Kallianos, a region covered in low vegetation. Strong winds have complicated firefighting efforts, fanning the flames across the landscape. At 1:10 a.m. on Monday, the 112 emergency alert system sent a message to residents of the nearby Agatho area, urging them to remain on high alert and follow official instructions.
A robust response was swiftly deployed, with 45 firefighters, including two foot patrol teams from the 4th Special Forest Operations Unit, and 16 vehicles battling the blaze. Volunteers and local government water tankers have also joined the effort to contain the fire, which remains active as of Monday morning.
Lefkada: Partial Control Achieved in Agios Nikitas
Meanwhile, on the island of Lefkada, a wildfire that ignited Sunday afternoon in a forested area near Agios Nikitas has been partially subdued. The fire prompted a series of emergency measures, including a 112 alert issued just before 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, instructing residents of Agios Nikitas to evacuate toward the town of Lefkada. Earlier that day, a precautionary message had been sent to residents of the nearby Kathisma area, advising them to stay vigilant and heed authorities.
A total of 75 firefighters, supported by five foot patrol units from the 5th and 6th Special Forest Operations Units and 20 vehicles, have been deployed to the scene. Local water tankers and heavy machinery have also bolstered the operation, helping to bring the fire under partial control by Monday.
Ongoing Efforts Amid High Alert
Both incidents underscore the challenges posed by Greece’s dry conditions and strong winds, which often exacerbate wildfire risks. As firefighting teams work tirelessly, authorities are urging residents across the affected regions to remain cautious and comply with safety directives.
Updates on the situation are expected as efforts to fully extinguish the fires continue. For now, the people of Evia and Lefkada stand resilient in the face of nature’s fury, supported by the coordinated response of Greece’s emergency services.