The island of Chios is grappling with severe wildfires that prompted the evacuation of several communities over the weekend. The fires began on Sunday, affecting areas such as Kofina, Agia Anna, and Agios Makarios Vrontadon. With the situation evolving rapidly, local authorities declared a state of emergency as they mobilized significant resources to combat the blazes, which have seen an increasing occurrence in recent years, largely attributed to climate change.
Wildfires Force Evacuations on Greece's Chios Island Amid Arson Probes
Wildfires Force Evacuations on Greece's Chios Island Amid Arson Probes
Over 190 firefighters are tackling multiple wildfires on Chios, with investigations pointing towards possible arson.
Firefighters from the Hellenic Fire Service are currently supported by an additional 170 personnel expected to arrive soon. A combination of 13 helicopters and four firefighting airplanes is also in operation, as officials work tirelessly to contain the flames.
Giannis Kefalogiannis, Greece's Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, acknowledged the challenging conditions on the island, characterized by extreme heat and strong winds that exacerbate fire spread. As the country faces a persistent threat of wildfires each summer, there has been a notable increase in both their frequency and severity—a phenomenon that has led to enhanced preventive measures across the nation, including a historical allocation of 2 billion euros for advanced fire detection technologies.
In light of the recent fires breaking out in succession, arson investigators have been dispatched to Chios to determine the cause, heightening concerns as local communities remain on high alert. With the fire service adapting to the evolving crisis, crews are being supplemented via sea and air transportation as they face a challenging battle against nature's fury.
Giannis Kefalogiannis, Greece's Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, acknowledged the challenging conditions on the island, characterized by extreme heat and strong winds that exacerbate fire spread. As the country faces a persistent threat of wildfires each summer, there has been a notable increase in both their frequency and severity—a phenomenon that has led to enhanced preventive measures across the nation, including a historical allocation of 2 billion euros for advanced fire detection technologies.
In light of the recent fires breaking out in succession, arson investigators have been dispatched to Chios to determine the cause, heightening concerns as local communities remain on high alert. With the fire service adapting to the evolving crisis, crews are being supplemented via sea and air transportation as they face a challenging battle against nature's fury.
