Fire on Chios: Strong winds make evacuation of 17 villages difficult

Fire on Chios: Strong winds make evacuation of 17 villages difficult

Devastating forest fires are currently raging on the Greek island of Chios, which the fire brigade has been fighting for two days. According to a report by ZVW, three large fires broke out, leading to the evacuation of 17 towns and a reception center for migrants. Hundreds of people had to be brought to safety, but tourists are not at risk.

Extinguishing work is made difficult by strong winds that are fueling the fire. Almost 200 firefighters are on duty, supported by 38 fire engines and numerous fire-fighting helicopters and aircraft. Reinforcements were sent by boat from the mainland to support the emergency services. There are already initial concerns among the population about the mastic plantations on Chios, which are unique in the world and are used for products such as chewing gum, liqueur, desserts, cosmetics and medical products. In the past, during the fires in 2010, almost half of the mastic groves were destroyed.

Arson suspected

Local politicians have expressed suspicion of arson since the fires broke out almost simultaneously. Investigators are already on site to clarify the exact causes. Experts believe that many forest and bush fires in Greece are of human origin. This is in line with previous statistics showing that around 8.75 million hectares of forest burned in Greece between 1982 and 1998, with the worst season being 2007 when over 270,000 hectares burned.

The current fires are part of a larger problem in Greece, which has seen an increase in forest fires in recent years. According to the portal you-are-greek, factors such as human error, arson and climatic conditions, including high temperatures, drought and strong winds, are the main causes of the increase in such disasters. In just 24 hours, 44 new forest fires were registered in Greece alone.

• Starke Winde und extreme Trockenheit verschärfen die Lage.
• Die Zerstörung von Vegetation und die Bedrohung von Siedlungen ist häufig die Folge.
• Die wirtschaftlichen Schäden durch solche Brände betreffen insbesondere den Tourismussektor und die Landwirtschaft.

In recent years there have also been significant health impacts caused by air pollution caused by forest fires. Travelers are advised to activate “Cell Broadcast Alerts” and use emergency number 112 when in an affected area.

The alarming situation in Chios and other Greek areas highlights the need for preventive measures and early control of forest fires. The region urgently needs more effective strategies to deter arsonists and protect the forests of the future. These problems, which affect many Greek islands, must be addressed with determination.

In summary, the situation on the island of Chios is tense and the fire brigades are working around the clock to bring the fires under control. As ZVW reports, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop and what measures will be taken to prevent future fires.

For more information about forest fires in Greece, visit ZVW and you-are-Greek.