A fire continuing near the settlement of Karydi in the Lasithi region of Crete Island spread across a wide area under the influence of the wind. Firefighters are continuing their efforts to prevent the flames from advancing and extinguish active fire spots.
Between 10 and 12 fire engines are operating in the area. Aircraft suspended firefighting operations after nightfall.
Evacuation call issued
People in the vicinity of Karydi were asked to evacuate toward Zakros as a precaution. Residents living near the fire were also urged through the 112 emergency system to remain prepared and follow the authorities’ instructions.
Winds of approximately 5 on the Beaufort scale are affecting the area, while gusts that occasionally strengthen have made firefighting efforts more difficult. After the wind changed direction, the fire’s direction of advance also changed.
Ground crews are expected to continue battling the fire throughout the night.
One person detained in Lagonisi
A fire that broke out in an open area in Greece’s Lagonisi region in the morning affected approximately 50 square meters of dry grassland. Firefighters brought the blaze under control before it could spread further.
An investigation conducted by the fire service determined that the fire had been deliberately started using an open flame. Teams from the Eastern Attica Arson Crimes Investigation Unit detained a 25-year-old foreign national on suspicion of deliberately starting the fire. The suspect is expected to be referred to the prosecutor’s office.
In Greece, 356 people were detained under the flagrante delicto procedure in connection with fires between January 1 and September 20. Of these, 316 were accused of negligence and 40 of deliberately starting fires.
During the same period, 807 administrative fines totaling more than 1.38 million euros were issued in connection with fires.
