Thousands of people have been evacuated from the Greek Island of Rhodes as wildfires continue to ravage the area. The fires, fueled by a heatwave and strong winds, have forced approximately 3,500 residents and tourists to leave their hotels and homes. Fortunately, only about 10% of the island’s tourist accommodations have been affected so far. Efforts to combat the wildfires have been underway since Tuesday, with firefighters from multiple countries joining the rescue operations.
The situation on Rhodes remains serious and challenging, with firefighters having to withdraw and relocate due to the strong winds and rapidly changing direction of the fire. To aid in the firefighting efforts, three airplanes, five helicopters, and 40 firetrucks have been deployed, supporting over 200 firefighters battling the blaze. Additionally, the Greek Coast Guard and Ministry of Shipping have mobilized various boats, including coast guard vessels, private boats, cargo ships, and military inflatable boats to assist in the evacuations.
In addition to Rhodes, numerous wildfires have been reported in other parts of Greece, prompting officials to issue warnings about the escalating fire risk amidst the ongoing heatwave. Officials fear that the extreme weather conditions could potentially trigger more fires across the country.
To ensure the safety of tourists and residents, evacuation plans have been communicated through text messages, and designated boats have been dispatched to transport people to safer locations. While the wildfires remain a cause for concern, it is crucial to acknowledge the efforts made by authorities and firefighting teams to control and mitigate the spread of the flames.
As the situation unfolds, it is essential to stay updated on the latest developments and follow any evacuation instructions issued by local authorities. Both residents and tourists are encouraged to prioritize their safety and take necessary precautions in the face of these devastating wildfires.
