Fire erupts in Samothraki, Greece; residents alerted

A fire erupted in low vegetation in the Xiropotamos area of Samothraki, Greece, on the afternoon of Saturday, August 15, 2026, prompting an immediate mobilization of emergency services. The incident occurred around 6:00 PM, according to information from the Fire Service Operations Center.

To combat the fire, 10 firefighters were dispatched with five vehicles, supported by local volunteers. Additionally, water tankers from the Municipality of Samothraki provided crucial resources for the firefighting efforts. Aerial support was provided by one helicopter and three aircraft, which worked to contain the flames alongside the ground crews.

The emergency services agency 112 issued an alert to residents in the broader area, urging them to remain vigilant and follow the authorities' instructions due to the fire risk. Strong winds in the region significantly complicated the work of the firefighting forces, exacerbating the challenge of controlling the blaze.

The area was identified as being at a very high risk of fire, category 4, on the day the incident occurred. The Evros Arson Investigation Unit was mobilized to investigate the causes of the fire. The fire was reported in the Xiropotamos area of the island of Samothraki.