Lesbos Wildfire: Firefighters Battle Scattered Blazes in Plovmari, Damaging Olive Groves and Livestock Facilities

Firefighters continue to battle scattered active blazes in Plovmari, Lesbos, after a fire erupted in garbage and dry grass on September 29. The blaze has consumed an estimated 1,000 hectares of olive groves and pine forest. The situation has improved, but firefighters remain on high alert due to strong winds reaching up to 6 Beaufort, with gusts of 7.

Ninety-two firefighters, supported by five ground teams, volunteers, and 19 vehicles, are engaged in the effort. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but initial information suggests it may have been accidental rather than arson. Authorities expect to draw firm conclusions after completing their inquiry.

Nikos Karasavvas, Deputy Mayor of Civil Protection for the Municipality of Mytilene, stated that between 500 and 1,000 hectares have been burned. Approximately 80% of the burnt area consists of olive groves, with the remaining 20% being forest and shrubland. The full extent of the damage will be clearer after the fire is fully extinguished and a detailed survey is completed.

A significant portion of the burned land comprises private agricultural properties. Beyond the destruction of vegetation, landowners face the loss of production for years to come. Procedures for damage assessment by relevant services and the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization (ELGA) are expected to begin immediately to explore compensation options for affected producers. Two livestock units were also impacted, though initial reports indicate farmers managed to evacuate their animals without losses. Karasavvas emphasized the challenging nature of the fight, noting that even without visible flames, wind can carry embers from smoldering trees.

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The fire in the olive groves...