The Greek island of Crete is battling massive wildfires, leading to the evacuation of over 1,500 people. The fires, fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, have forced tourists and locals to seek shelter in temporary accommodations. Swedish charter companies are on standby to assist their nationals.
Wildfires Ravage Crete: Thousands Evacuated Amid Heatwave
Wildfires Ravage Crete: Thousands Evacuated Amid Heatwave
The Greek island of Crete has been hit by massive wildfires, leading to the evacuation of over 1,000 people.
The extreme heatwave continues to plague southern Europe, and massive wildfires have now erupted on the Greek island of Crete.
The fires began on Wednesday afternoon near the city of Ierapetra on Crete's southern coast. By evening, evacuations were ordered for hotels and residences in the surrounding areas. So far, at least 1,500 people have been evacuated, with several tourists spending the night in a basketball arena.
Charter Companies: "Ready to Assist"
Charter companies are prepared to evacuate Swedes in the area. Apollo and Ving have a total of 81 Swedes staying in the region.
"We have prepared alternative accommodation and transport," says Claes Pellvik from Ving to TT.
Strong Winds Complicate Efforts
Approximately 150 firefighters worked through the evening to combat the blaze. The fire department told Reuters that the fire was spread by strong winds, complicating efforts.
"It is a very difficult situation, the fire is very hard to contain," says Nektarios Papadakis of the local rescue service, to AP.
Currently, there are no reports of injuries, but local media have reported damaged buildings.