Μake us preferred on Google Authorities investigating the wildfires on the Greek island of Salamina are examining different possible causes for two separate fire fronts, including accidental ignition and arson.
The Directorate for Arson Crimes continues to investigate the fires. Initial findings suggest the blaze in Peristeria may have started accidentally, while arson is considered the most likely scenario for the fire above Selinia. A woman has been brought in for questioning in connection with the latter fire.
Investigation into the Peristeria fire
The Peristeria fire appears to have started on Andromachis Street. Investigators are focusing on a woman who is believed to have used an open flame on her balcony, from which sparks may have started the fire.
Inspection of areas affected by the wildfire on Salamina by teams from the General Secretariat for Natural Disaster Recovery to assess the damage. Tuesday, August 18, 2026. (DANAE DAVLOPOULOU / EUROKINISSI)
Firefighters also collected sections of electrical cables from the area to rule out a fault in the power network. The material has been taken to the Athens suburb of Chalandri for examination by an expert.
Investigators are also examining what officials describe as the “zero point” — the location where the fire is believed to have started.
If the initial assessment is confirmed, the fire is believed to have begun just 100 to 150 meters from the home of an elderly couple who died in the blaze.
The couple managed to leave their home but did not get far enough away. The fire caught up with them in a ravine they had chosen as an escape route.
At least 15 buildings damaged
Deputy Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Kostas Katsafados told ERT News radio that the Fire Department’s investigative unit is conducting a thorough investigation into both fires and that all possibilities, including arson, remain open.
Inspection of areas affected by the wildfire on Salamina by teams from the General Secretariat for Natural Disaster Recovery to assess the damage. Tuesday, August 18, 2026. (DANAE DAVLOPOULOU / EUROKINISSI)
He noted that the two fires broke out just 10 to 15 minutes apart, describing the timing as “highly problematic.”
On-site inspections have begun, with initial estimates indicating that around 15 buildings have sustained damage. The municipality is preparing an announcement on the process for residents to submit compensation claims.
