A wildfire broke out Saturday afternoon in an agricultural and forested area near the village of Kokori in Aetolia-Acarnania, western Greece. The fire ignited under unclear circumstances around 5:15 p.m. local time, north of the Kokori settlement.

Firefighting efforts were immediately launched, involving 35 firefighters, a ground team from the 6th Special Forestry Operations Unit (EMODE), and 13 fire engines. Local authorities also deployed water tankers to assist. Aerial support included two helicopters and two firefighting aircraft.

Evacuation Alert Issued via 112

At approximately 5:50 p.m., Greece’s Civil Protection service issued an emergency evacuation alert via the 112 system, urging residents in the areas of Evinochori and Kokori to evacuate toward the city of Patras.

“Forest fire in your area. If you are in Evinochori or Kokori, evacuate toward Patras. Follow instructions from authorities,” the alert stated.

Firefighting operations remain ongoing as authorities work to contain the blaze and protect nearby communities.