Skyros wildfire burns over 3,600 acres; firefighting efforts improve

A significant wildfire on the Greek island of Skyros has scorched more than 3,600 acres, as confirmed by satellite imagery from the Copernicus Emergency Management Service. The fire, which ignited on August 15 in the Atsitsa area, has seen its perimeter measured at 3,636 acres based on an image captured on August 16 at 10:42 AM.

Firefighting forces report an improving situation, with the fire no longer presenting a continuous front. Efforts are now focused on tackling scattered hotspots and smoldering areas. Firefighters are preparing for a final push overnight to fully contain the blaze and prevent any rekindling. The southern side of the island, towards Agios Fokas, remains the most problematic area, while the eastern front towards Pefko appears to be under control.

The fire consumed a dense pine forest, a significant portion of which had only recently regenerated after a previous fire devastated the same area in 2008. The investigation into the cause of the current fire is being conducted by the Evia-based Investigative Unit for Arson Crimes. This incident highlights the recurring vulnerability of Skyros's natural landscape to wildfires.