In early July 2025, wildfires erupted on the Greek island of Crete, a renowned tourist destination, leading to widespread evacuations. The fires, primarily concentrated near Ierapetra, were exacerbated by high temperatures and strong winds, which contributed to their rapid spread . Approximately 1,500 individuals were evacuated from several settlements and tourist accommodations as emergency alerts were issued. This situation not only jeopardized local residents but also posed significant risks to the tourism sector that is vital for the region's economy .
new wildfire in Greece prompted evacuations in coastal areas south of Athens of Friday, as firefighters in neighboring Turkey remained locked in a battle to contain flames tearing through forested hillsides in the west of the country.
Wildfires that broke out in at least five locations across Turkey's Aegean coastal province of İzmir — fueled by soaring temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity — have killed two people, forced the evacuation of tens of thousands and damaged some 200 homes.
Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumakli said Friday that firefighters, supported by water-dropping aircraft, remained on the ground battling a deadly wildfire near the town of Odemis for a third day. Elsewhere, emergency crews worked to halt the spread of a new blaze that broke out late Thursday near the district of Buca.
The wildfire in Crete began on Wednesday afternoon and burned well into Thursday on the rugged mountains surrounding Ierapetra, a town on the southeast coast of the island. About 1,500 people, mostly tourists, were evacuated. Greece, like much of southern Europe, has been experiencing a heat wave that has created hot and dry conditions. The fire spread quickly once lit, leaping in the wind.
Wildfires have ripped through other European countries this week as the continent endures a brutal heat wave.
Tens of thousands were evacuated in Turkey as blazes ripped through the western Izmir and Manisa provinces and southern Hatay province, damaging nearly 200 homes.
Blazes also broke out in France and in Spain, where two people died.
Efforts to combat the blaze involved over 200 firefighters supported by multiple vehicles and helicopters; however, containment proved challenging due to difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions . As authorities set up makeshift camps for those displaced by the fires in areas such as Achlia and Ferma, it became evident that this wildfire was part of a broader pattern affecting various European countries during an increasingly severe fire season . The implications of these events highlight urgent needs for improved fire management strategies in vulnerable regions.
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