A major wildfire has erupted in a forested region on the island of Thasos, in the northern Aegean, prompting a large-scale emergency response that intensified with the first light of Thursday.
The fire started around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday near the town of Limenas, above the popular Glykadi beach. At first light, aerial firefighting units joined the battle to contain the advancing flames.
On the ground, 18 firefighters with 9 fire engines are operating at the site, while reinforcements have arrived from Kavala, including 34 firefighters, two specialized forest firefighting teams and 6 additional vehicles. Local authorities have also deployed municipal water tankers and heavy machinery to support the effort.
Road Closures Across the Island
In response to the emergency, Thasos mayor has ordered the suspension of all traffic between Limenas and Prinos to keep roads clear for fire engines and equipment. The road from Limenas to Rachoni is also closed.
Situation Remains Critical
The Deputy Regional Governor for Civil Protection of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, speaking to public broadcaster ERT, confirmed that the fire ignited near Limenas, crossed the main road, and is now heading north.
He described the situation as “critical,” but noted that the wind conditions have so far been manageable — a key factor in preventing further escalation. He emphasized that if the wind remains steady or dies down, firefighters may be able to contain the blaze at a higher elevation, where a significant firebreak exists.
Half of Thasos Left Without Power
According to the deputy governor, while no residential areas are currently under direct threat, the blaze is consuming dense pine forest and has caused extensive power outages, with roughly half of the island reportedly without electricity.
Burned Infrastructure and Tourist Areas at Risk
Thasos’ Deputy Mayor described the situation as “difficult,” noting that the fire started by the roadside and spread toward the tourist area of Pachis and the village of Rachoni. Power has been cut in Pachis due to damaged utility poles.
While no homes are currently at risk, the fire continues to burn through forestland, threatening the environment and tourism.
