Evia wildfire: Fire Service reports improvement, mayor says no active front

Firefighters in Evia, Greece, are maintaining a state of alert following a significant wildfire in Almyropotamos. The blaze, which erupted Saturday afternoon, required the efforts of 120 firefighters, supported by aerial units and civil protection mechanisms, to combat the flames.

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The fire passed through a PPC substation in Rapti, resulting in a power outage to allow for aerial drops. The evacuation of the two villages was swift, and fortunately, no homes were threatened.

Residents from the settlements of Mesochoria and Rapti were advised to evacuate as a precautionary measure. The fire reportedly passed through a PPC substation in Rapti, necessitating a temporary power outage to allow for aerial water drops. Fortunately, no homes were threatened due to the swift evacuation, according to the mayor of Karystos.

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The strong ground and air forces of the Fire Service managed to prevent the worst, and before sunset, the active front was controlled. The Civil Protection mechanism assisted the Fire Service's work with 5 water tankers and 2 earthmoving machines, while also supporting the coordination for the precautionary removal of citizens when required.

While officials report that the active front has been controlled before sunset, the situation remains under watch due to the fire's extent, covering approximately 500 acres, and the strong seasonal winds in the area. The local investigative office has initiated an inquiry into the fire's origins.

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In any case, the firefighters who operated throughout the afternoon in the area remain on alert, because, although the image has improved, it is still a front of about 500 acres, and the northerly winds in the area are particularly strong at this time.