Chios in flames. State of emergency as large wildfire rages
Chios in flames. State of emergency as large wildfire rages
25 July 2016
published by http://en.protothema.gr
Greece Strong winds make extinguishing operation hard
According to information prothrmea.gr has gained, authorities have declared the island of Chios in a state of emergency, as the wildfire burning from the morning hours of Monday is out of control.
Two houses have been burnt, while people in the villages of Lithi, Mesta and Elata have been evacuated. Six helicopters are taking part in efforts to put out the fire, while 16 vehicles and 38 firefighters are also taking part in operations. Due to strong gusts the specials fire extinguishing Canadair aircraft are unable to contribute to in operations.
The mayor of Chios, Manolis Vournous told Skai TV that so far 2 houses have been burnt to the ground.
According to the latest information, firefighting aircraft and personnel (22 vehicles and 52 firefighters) have been deployed from Athens and Thessaloniki to take part in the operations.
A large fire has been raging on the island of Chios since the morning hour of Monday. Operations to contain the blaze are being hindered by strong winds blowing in the area of Vessa. 12 firefighting vehicles, 32 firefighters and 30 volunteers are involved in the efforts to extinguish the fire. A helicopter and an airplane are also contributing to the efforts.
