Halkidiki Wildfire Forces Evacuations, Tourists Rescued by Sea

A major wildfire erupted Thursday in Siviri, on Greece's Halkidiki peninsula, a popular holiday spot for Romanian tourists. The flames spread rapidly through agricultural and wooded areas, nearing residential zones, prompting authorities to order evacuations. Some tourists and locals were evacuated by sea as strong winds fanned the blaze, sending smoke visible across the peninsula.

The firefighting operation was extensive, involving 142 firefighters, four specialized teams, and 42 vehicles. Nine aircraft and seven helicopters, including one coordinating aerial efforts, were deployed. Firefighters also received support from water tankers, according to ekathimerini.

Greek authorities activated the 112 warning system, issuing evacuation orders for Siviri residents and tourists, directing them towards Mola Kaliva. About an hour later, a second alert urged those in Fourka to evacuate to Skioni. The situation necessitated sea evacuations for people on the beach in the Papakyritsi area of Fourka, with a coast guard vessel, private boats, and a fast passenger boat participating.

The fire consumed agricultural land and forests, approaching houses and causing material damage. Strong winds hampered firefighting efforts and accelerated the fire's spread. The cause remains officially undetermined, though Greek public television ERT reported that high winds might have caused a power pole to collapse, potentially sparking the fire, a claim unconfirmed by authorities.

The incident occurred despite Greek authorities warning of a high fire risk in Halkidiki during the summer season. Restrictions on pedestrian and vehicle access to certain wooded areas in Kassandra, Sithonia, and Aristotelis municipalities are set to begin Friday.