Halkidiki wildfire burns 3,500 acres in Siviri, destruction significant amid fears of flare-ups

A wildfire in Siviri, Halkidiki, Greece, scorched 3,500 acres on Thursday, with firefighting forces remaining on alert due to expected wind increases. The most serious incident among 40 forest fires faced by the Fire Service occurred in Siviri. Overnight operations yielded positive results, with the situation significantly improved by Friday morning. Currently, efforts focus on dampening remaining embers and tackling small hotspots, while forces stay vigilant for strengthening winds, including potential gale-force gusts, expected from midday.

The firefighting operation was exceptionally challenging because the fire ignited and spread through a highly developed area of Halkidiki, featuring residences, tourist facilities, and a high civilian presence during this period. Priority was given to protecting human life and property, alongside efforts to contain the fire's spread. Consequently, emergency messages were issued via the 112 system, leading to the evacuation of 446 individuals by sea to a safe location.

The total burned area is estimated at 3,500 acres, a small portion of the Kassandra peninsula's approximately 334,000 acres. This contrasts sharply with the major fire of 2006, which consumed about 77,000 acres, nearly a quarter of Kassandra.