Greece Wildfire: Sea Evacuations Save 259 Amidst Complex Rescue Operation

A challenging and intricate rescue operation unfolded simultaneously with firefighting efforts during a major wildfire in Attica-Boeotia, Greece, which began on July 31. The rapid spread of the fire in the Kalamaki – Agios Vasileios area of Boeotia severed land escape routes, leaving the sea as the only means of egress for hundreds of citizens.

As roads became impassable, many residents who had delayed their departure found themselves trapped on the beach. A naval force was immediately mobilized for their rescue. The Fire Service's fast boat RAFNAR 22 was the first to arrive, followed by the Fire Service ship "MOUZAKITIS." Five private vessels, a Coast Guard boat, and two tugboats also assisted in the operation.

In total, 254 individuals were safely evacuated from the Agios Vasileios pier. Of these, 238 were transported to Livadostrata beach, and 16 were taken to the port of Antikyra. Concurrently, firefighters conducted door-to-door searches within the settlement, assisting the elderly, individuals with disabilities, families with young children, and even pets to safety.

A similar operation took place that same evening in Porto Germeno. When flames entered the settlement, the crew of the fast boat RAFNAR 22 rescued a family of four and an elderly woman from the coastal area. The regional governor of Central Greece, Fanis Spanos, was also present at the scene.