Wildfire Threatens Crete as Firefighters Mobilize

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — A significant wildfire on the southern Greek island of Crete has prompted urgent action from local authorities, with over 200 firefighters deployed to combat the flames. Late Wednesday, the fire service reported that 222 firefighters, including 32 reinforcements from other regions of Greece, were engaged in efforts to contain the blaze in the Rethymno district. As a precautionary measure, the village of Aghia Paraskevi was evacuated, and residents of three nearby villages were advised to prepare for potential evacuation. The wildfire has been fueled by high winds, spreading rapidly through scrub and olive groves. While there have been no immediate reports of damage to homes or injuries, the situation remains precarious as the fire continues to threaten local communities. This summer has seen an alarming rise in wildfires across Greece, with more than 2,000 incidents reported, marking the highest fire risk in two decades. Authorities attribute the increased fire danger to a mild, dry winter followed by a hot, dry spring, which has left vegetation highly susceptible to ignition. In response, the government has invested in enhanced firefighting resources, including water-dropping aircraft and early warning drones, which have helped extinguish most fires within hours. However, the summer has also seen numerous arrests and fines for individuals responsible for accidentally starting fires, alongside a few cases of suspected arson.