Kefalonia: Battle with flare-ups – Fires ongoing in Mousata and Ratzakli areas

Firefighters are engaged in a fierce battle against ongoing wildfires on the Greek island of Kefalonia, with active blazes concentrated in the areas of Mousata and Ratzakli. Despite efforts to contain the fires, strong winds are fueling continuous flare-ups, complicating the challenging work of extinguishing the flames.

The most significant problems are occurring in southeastern Kefalonia, with active fire fronts above Katelios and in the Mavrata and Thiramona regions. Ground crews, who fought through the night to keep flames away from populated areas, have been bolstered by aerial support since early morning. A Canadair firefighting aircraft, a helicopter, and two PZL aircraft are operating from Kefalonia Airport.

Reinforcements from mainland Greece have also arrived to support the island's efforts. Five fire engines and 20 firefighters from Pyrgos disembarked at Poros port and immediately joined the operations. Additional firefighting forces were transported by ferry from Kyllini to aid in the containment and combatting of the flare-ups.

The fire, driven by strong winds, spread rapidly through areas including Pastra, Kremmydi, Markopoulo, Mavrata, Thiramona, and Katelios. In several locations, flames reached dangerously close to homes, even extending to the yards of houses and the main road, prompting a significant mobilization of authorities. Throughout the night, the 112 emergency number was repeatedly activated, leading the Civil Protection to issue precautionary evacuations for Kremmydi, Markopoulo, Katelios, Mavrata, Hionata, and Thiramona. Residents and tourists were safely evacuated following official guidance.

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Forest fire in your area!! If you are in the #Xionata #Thiramona & #Mavrata areas of the Regional Unit #Kefallinia, evacuate towards #Argostoli!! Follow the instructions of the Authorities