Crete Wildfires Trigger Evacuations, Reinforcements Sent

Greek authorities dispatched additional forces to Crete, where 250 firefighters battled a wildfire that led to the evacuation of six villages. Despite damaging olive groves and irrigation networks, the fire posed no immediate threat to tourist resorts. The blaze was exacerbated by strong winds and tinder-dry conditions from a hot, dry spring.

Greek authorities dispatched extra forces Thursday to combat a wildfire on Crete that has forced six villages to evacuate. The 250 firefighters on the scene struggled against strong winds that have exacerbated the flames.

The wildfire scorched olive groves and farmland but did not threaten the popular coastal resorts, according to officials. Reinforcements from Athens, including 40 firefighters from a specialized unit, are set to join the fight, adding to the team sent on Wednesday.

While no injuries or severe home damage were reported, firefighting efforts were bolstered by 13 waterbombing aircraft and eight helicopters. This summer, Greece has faced over 2,000 wildfires, the worst in two decades due to unusually high temperatures linked to climate change. The government has ramped up firefighting assets to mitigate the risk.

(With inputs from agencies.)