Lesbos wildfire rages in two fronts, encircling Plovmari as winds intensify

A major wildfire is raging in two active fronts near Plovmari on the Greek island of Lesbos, with firefighting forces battling through the night against persistent flare-ups and strong winds that are hampering containment efforts. The blaze, which began Wednesday afternoon near an old landfill site above Milies, quickly split into two main fronts.

The first front is moving towards Plovmari, Agios Isidoros, Plagia, and Trigona, while the second is heading towards the mountainous area of Agios Antonios. These two fronts are effectively encircling the settlement of Plovmari, raising intense concern among local authorities and residents.

Weather conditions remain extremely unfavorable, with winds intensifying and expected to reach 8 to 9 Beaufort overnight. This forecast significantly increases the risk of new flare-ups and rapid fire spread. Aerial firefighting units conducted continuous water drops until sunset before withdrawing, leaving ground forces to manage the situation in a difficult-to-access area.

Firefighters and volunteers on the ground report continuous flare-ups in areas where the flames had been temporarily controlled, forcing teams to constantly move to combat new outbreaks. The fire is primarily consuming olive groves and forest areas, with flames dangerously approaching homes on the outskirts of Plovmari. Images show the fire front nearing houses and the local cemetery, heightening residents' anxiety. Authorities issued a precautionary evacuation order for parts of Plovmari near the active fronts via the emergency number 112, instructing residents to move towards the town's beach.

Currently, 50 firefighters with 13 vehicles, two ground teams, volunteers, and municipal water tankers are working to contain the two fronts before the winds further intensify. The night is expected to be exceptionally difficult due to the combination of gale-force winds, dry vegetation, and challenging terrain, creating high-risk conditions for the fire's progression.