The devastating wildfire crisis on the island of Chios continues for a second day, with flames threatening homes and turning the landscape into ashes. The island has been declared a state of emergency as residents struggle against the encroaching fires. Pine and olive trees are being consumed by the blaze, prompting the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection to hint at possible arson.
In just 48 hours, five wildfires have erupted across the island. Fires broke out on Sunday in Kofinas, Agia Anna, and Agios Makarios Vrontadon. In the early hours of Monday, another fire ignited in Agios Markos, followed by a blaze in Agiasmata later that morning.
The Fire Service has mobilized a significant response, deploying 282 firefighters with 38 vehicles, including 82 firefighters airlifted from Thessaloniki. Additionally, 21 ground teams are involved, and earlier in the operation, four aircraft and 13 helicopters (one for coordination) were dispatched. Water tankers and equipment from the Hellenic Army and local authorities are also assisting in the firefighting efforts.
Investigation into Possible Arson
Minister Giannis Kefalogiannis, along with the General Secretary for Civil Protection, Nikos Papaefstathiou, visited Chios to assess the situation. The Minister indicated that the government is seriously examining the possibility of organized criminal activity, particularly arson, noting that multiple fires have ignited simultaneously in geographically disparate areas, which raises suspicions.
“When fires occur simultaneously in such distant areas, we must address the potential for suspicious activity,” Mr. Kefalogiannis stated. He expressed gratitude to the firefighters and delivered a firm warning, asserting that “those who choose to endanger lives through premeditated actions will face justice.”
Evacuations via Emergency Notifications (112)
The 112 emergency system has dispatched evacuation alerts for the settlements of Vessa, Lithi, Elata, and Armolia in Chios, instructing residents to evacuate towards the Livadia indoor gym. The message states:
“Wildfire in your area. Evacuate via Kontelopou if you are in Vessa, Lithi, Elata, or Armolia. Follow the Authorities’ instructions.”
Residents of Leptopoda in northern Chios are also on alert for potential immediate evacuation following another notification via 112. Earlier evacuation orders were issued for Resta and Agia Paraskevi, and subsequent messages were sent to Agios Georgios Sykousis and Dafnonas, instructing them to evacuate toward the city of Chios.
Evacuations had already taken place in Agios Makarios, Agios Markos, and Karyes on Sunday.
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