In Greece, a large -scale forest fire that broke out on July 2 on Crete island near the port city of Hierapetra. The fire quickly swept the wooded hills between the villages of Agia Photius and Skyinokapsal, forcing the power to start a mass evacuation of residents and tourists.
Due to a strong wind, which reached eight points on a bent scale, the flame spreads over 6 kilometers. The fire has already destroyed houses, rented real estate, and also harmed power grids - some of the settlements were left without light.
In the most affected areas - Akhlia, Farm, Agia Photi, Kutsunari - evacuated at least 1500 people. People who were stuck on isolated beaches had to be rescued on boats. Some of the evacuated ones were placed in the covered gym hierapetters, others - in hotels in safer parts of the island.
Currently, 155 firefighters, dozens of equipment, helicopters and specialized forest teams are fighting fire. Units from the mainland of the country arrived to help strength.
Due to the thick smoke, which spread for tens of kilometers, the authorities closed the main roads and warned of the dangerous quality of air. Residents and tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary trips.
The local authorities confirmed that several people have sought medical help due to smoke poisoning, and the medical institutions of all Crete were translated into a mode of increased readiness.
“This is a very difficult situation. Right now, the fire is not restrained, ”said Papadakis Civil Defense. He stressed that the life of the evacuated people is not threatened - they are in safe conditions.
The situation remains tense, and firefighters are preparing for a new difficult night.
