A wildfire broke out on Sunday afternoon near the town of Aliveri on the island of Evia (Euboea), prompting immediate concern due to its proximity to residential areas.
The blaze ignited in an area populated with olive trees and agricultural land. Local firefighting forces were rapidly deployed in an attempt to contain the flames before they could reach nearby homes. A total of 30 firefighters, supported by nine fire engines and a ground response unit, are on site. Aerial support includes two firefighting aircraft and two helicopters conducting water drops.
Emergency services have also carried out the evacuation of a woman with mobility issues, according to Nikos Mastrokostas, deputy mayor of Kymi-Aliveri.
The regional deputy governor of Evia, Giorgos Kelaïditis, described the situation as a “serious fire” fueled by strong winds. He reported that the fire is burning through low vegetation in the rural area of Pounta, within the Aliveri plain, and is currently very close to several houses, mostly used as vacation homes.
As a precaution, Greece’s Civil Protection Service sent out alerts via the 112 emergency system, urging residents in the area of Pontikou to evacuate toward the nearby area of Karavos. A previous alert had already been issued, warning residents to remain on standby in case the situation worsened.
Authorities remain on high alert as efforts to control the fire continue under challenging weather conditions.
