Fiery nightmare in Salamina: 'We fled bombing in Odessa and came here to burn' - Testimonies shock

A fierce fire on the Greek island of Salamina has left a trail of devastation, claiming two lives and causing incalculable damage. The blaze, concentrated in the Peristeria and Kaki Vigla areas, trapped and killed two elderly residents who could not escape or receive timely warnings.

Fueled by strong winds, the fire spread rapidly through dense vegetation and pine forests surrounding homes, making evacuation perilous. Firefighters battled intensely, but the two victims were confirmed dead before emergency services arrived and before the 112 emergency message was issued. They were trapped in their homes at the heart of the inferno.

Ten people suffered burns, and material damage to homes, vehicles, and boats is described as immense. The area also experienced severe traffic congestion as authorities implemented measures to ensure residents' safety. One Salamina resident, a choreographer for the Greek National Opera, shared a harrowing account of fleeing the war in Odessa only to face destruction by fire.

Angelos Chatzis, a neighbor of the victims, recounted his own experience, sustaining burns on his hands and hair. He expressed hope for state compensation and expert assistance for restoration. While thanking the firefighters, he noted their late arrival contributed to the high cost of the disaster. Chatzis also speculated that while many plots were cleared, the presence of trash on the beach and the inaccessibility for garbage trucks and fire engines might have exacerbated the situation.