Wildfires Evacuate Villages in Crete

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Firefighters on the southern Greek island of Crete are currently engaged in a battle against wildfire flare-ups that have prompted the evacuation of several villages in remote mountainous regions. The wildfire, which ignited on Wednesday, was initially contained after a brief respite from high winds overnight. However, conditions worsened after dawn, leading to intensified flames despite reinforcements arriving from the mainland. To combat the blaze, authorities deployed two water-dropping planes and two helicopters, supporting over 200 firefighters and a specialized 30-member firefighting unit in the central Rethymno area. The fire has ravaged olive groves and farmland, causing damage to irrigation systems, but officials have confirmed that it does not pose an immediate threat to the popular holiday resorts located along the coast. In response to the escalating situation, the fire department issued evacuation orders for a village near the Agia Paraskevi area in central Crete. This follows a series of precautionary measures taken late Wednesday as the fire's intensity increased. Local officials continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the safety of residents and tourists alike. As firefighting efforts persist, the community remains on alert, with authorities emphasizing the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable wildfire behavior. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by wildfires in the region, particularly during the dry summer months.