A wildfire broke out on Saturday, June 27, in an agricultural and forest area near Petra in Boeotia, central Greece, prompting authorities to issue an evacuation warning for residents.
The fire started shortly after 1:30 p.m. in an area covered by low vegetation. At around 2:30 p.m., the emergency alert system 112 sent a message advising residents in Petra to move toward Livadeia as a precaution.
Firefighting forces were reinforced to tackle the blaze, with 45 firefighters, two ground teams from the 4th Special Forest Operations Unit, and 13 vehicles deployed to the area. Six aircraft and one helicopter were also taking part in the operation from the air.
Water trucks from the Region of Central Greece were also assisting firefighting efforts.
According to the fire risk map, the area was classified as category 4, indicating a very high risk of wildfire, while very strong winds were affecting the region.
Fire crews are continuing their efforts to contain the fire and prevent further spread.
Throughout the incident, the National Coordination Center for Operations and Crisis Management (ESKEDIK) has been receiving continuous updates through drone footage using both visual and thermal cameras.
The Boeotia Fire Investigation Unit responsible for addressing arson-related incidents has also arrived at the scene.
