The wildfire that raged through the mountainous Feneos region in Corinthia, Greece, has been brought under control, following intense firefighting efforts and a temporary evacuation of three villages. The fire, which reignited on Wednesday afternoon, threatened the nearby settlement of Mati before being successfully pushed back by ground crews and aerial support.
Scattered hot spots persist in remote and rugged terrain, and firefighting aircraft resumed operations at first light to tackle remaining flare-ups. Hundreds of firefighters remain on site, including crews from Romania and the Czech Republic, deployed as part of international assistance missions.
Over 11,000 Hectares Burned in First 24 Hours
Satellite imagery from the European Copernicus EMS and the WorldView-3 satellite revealed that the fire scorched approximately 11,450 hectares (over 28,000 acres) of forest and scrubland on the first day alone. The affected area spans between Kastania, Lafka, Mosia, and the Feneos Plateau.
The high temperatures and dry conditions that fueled the fire continue to pose a risk of reignition, and fire services remain on high alert across the region.
Two Men Face Felony Arson Charges
Two men—one Greek national aged 34 and another man from Kazakhstan aged 33—have been arrested in connection with the blaze. According to authorities, the pair were conducting hot work involving a grinder and welding in a forested area when the fire broke out.
They reportedly admitted to starting the fire through negligence during questioning. Initially detained under emergency procedures, both now face upgraded felony charges with potential intent, following a decision by the public prosecutor in Corinth. Their assets may also be subject to seizure.
The suspects, who were fined €11,812 in administrative penalties, remain in custody and are expected to appear before the examining magistrate.
