Crete Wildfires Trigger Mass Evacuation as State of Emergency Declared
Firestorm Ignites Near Tourist Village
A devastating wildfire has erupted on the Greek island of Crete, leading to the evacuation of thousands of people and prompting a state of emergency. The fire began on Wednesday near the small village of Achlia, located in the southeast of the island. Fueled by extremely dry conditions, soaring temperatures, and gale-force winds, the flames quickly spread to surrounding forested areas, catching local communities and tourists off guard.
The Greek government’s emergency alert system was immediately activated to warn people in nearby regions. These alerts were sent via text and broadcasted across media platforms, urging residents and visitors to leave affected areas without delay. As flames raced through the hills and valleys, the blaze soon reached neighboring locations such as Ferma and Skinokapsala, escalating the crisis.
5,000 People Evacuated, Including Tourists
Authorities confirmed that over 5,000 people have been evacuated so far. The majority of those displaced were foreign tourists staying in beachside hotels and holiday resorts near Ierapetra, a major coastal city. Buses, boats, and private vehicles were used to ferry evacuees away from danger. Some individuals had to be taken out by rescue boats after being trapped due to road closures and smoke.
According to Manolis Tzarakis, the head of the Southeast Crete Hoteliers’ Association, at least 200 people are now taking shelter in a sports hall in Ierapetra. Many are families with children, caught by surprise during what was meant to be a peaceful vacation. Local volunteers and aid workers have rushed to provide food, water, and basic supplies to those in temporary shelters.
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Firefighting Teams Struggle Against Nature
The wildfire continues to burn fiercely due to 50 mph winds, making it extremely difficult for firefighters to contain the flames. A massive emergency response has been launched, involving 230 firefighters, 46 fire engines, 13 ground teams, a drone surveillance unit, and 10 helicopters. These crews are working around the clock to battle multiple active fire fronts in both inland and coastal areas.
Officials report widespread damage. Homes, greenhouses, villas, hotels, and businesses have been destroyed. Properties have collapsed into piles of rubble. Electricity has been cut in several locations, adding to the chaos. The main road in Agia Fotia has been shut down by police due to safety concerns, and thick smoke continues to make visibility poor for rescue teams.
Health Emergency and Broader European Heat Crisis
Hospitals across Crete are now on high alert, as dozens of elderly residents have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation and respiratory distress. Medical staff are working overtime to care for both locals and tourists affected by the toxic air and heat. Authorities have issued strong advisories, asking all residents to stay indoors, limit travel, and avoid outdoor activity unless absolutely necessary.
This disaster in Crete is part of a much larger climate crisis affecting the entire European continent. Earlier this week, a major wildfire in Izmir, Turkey forced the evacuation of over 50,000 people. Meanwhile, at least six deaths related to heat stress and dehydration have been reported across Spain, Italy, and France, as temperatures continue to reach record-breaking highs.
What Happens Next for Crete?
Authorities in Greece are monitoring the fire situation closely and continue to issue evacuation orders in the surrounding regions. Residents and tourists in Ferma, Agia Fotia, Galini, and Koutsounari have been told to leave immediately. The government is preparing for additional evacuations if the winds shift or the flames spread further inland.
Emergency teams say it may take several more days before the fire is fully contained. Meanwhile, environmental experts warn that climate change is playing a direct role in making these wildfires more intense and more frequent. Drought, extreme heat, and high winds are expected to continue throughout the summer season in southern Europe.
