Hundreds of firefighters remained deployed in Halkidiki after bringing a large wildfire near the tourist resort of Siviri under control, as authorities warned that winds exceeding 100 kph could reignite hot spots.
The fire broke out on Aug. 13 in Siviri, on the Kassandra peninsula, and spread rapidly towards populated areas because of strong winds.
Greek authorities issued several emergency alerts through the 112 system, instructing residents and tourists to avoid threatened locations.
More than 120 firefighters, ground teams and dozens of vehicles were deployed, supported by firefighting aircraft and helicopters. Firefighters from Moldova also joined the operation through the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism.
The rapid spread of the flames prompted a large evacuation. The Coast Guard used boats to evacuate 481 people from beaches in the affected area, while residents and tourists elsewhere were directed to safer locations.
Several homes and public facilities were damaged, including a local wastewater treatment plant. Two firefighters were injured during the operation.
The blaze also burned through a significant forested area in central Kassandra known for its Mediterranean pine trees. The region was hit by a major wildfire in 2006, adding to concerns about long-term damage to its forests.
Greek authorities imposed restrictions on pedestrian and vehicle access to some forest areas in Kassandra and Sithonia because of the heightened fire risk. Violations are punishable by a fine of 300 euros.
Emergency crews continue to monitor the area closely, with strong winds posing the greatest immediate threat to containment efforts.
The fire comes during the peak summer season, when Halkidiki hosts large numbers of domestic and international tourists.