Greek authorities have placed several areas of Crete and the North Aegean under a very high wildfire risk (Category 4) for Monday, July 6, according to the Fire Risk Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
The warning applies to the regional units of Heraklion, Rethymno and Lasithi on Crete, as well as the islands of Chios, Psara, Samos and Ikaria in the North Aegean.
In response to the elevated threat, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection has alerted all relevant state agencies, regional authorities and municipalities, instructing them to remain on heightened readiness to respond swiftly to any wildfire outbreaks.
The Fire Service has also activated the second stage of its operational preparedness plan, which includes increased aerial surveillance and expanded ground patrols by firefighters, police and military personnel in vulnerable areas.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution, stressing that even minor acts of negligence can trigger devastating fires under current conditions. People are advised to avoid burning dry vegetation, branches or agricultural waste, using machinery that generates sparks—such as power saws and welding equipment—lighting outdoor barbecues, burning beehives or discarding lit cigarettes.
Officials also reminded the public that the burning of fields remains strictly prohibited throughout the fire season.
Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through the Fire Service’s official website and verified social media channels, where updates on wildfire prevention and emergency conditions are regularly published.
Anyone who spots smoke or a wildfire is urged to report it immediately by calling the Fire Service emergency number 199, allowing emergency crews to respond as quickly as possible.
