The Greek government has declared a state of emergency on the island of Chios as multiple wildfires continue to burn uncontrollably. Since the weekend, five separate outbreaks have been ravaging Greece’s fifth-largest island, driven by strong winds and dry summer conditions.
Civil Protection Minister Ioannis Kefalogiannis announced the emergency measures to enable immediate action by local authorities. “If the wind dies down a bit, we might be able to get this fire under control,” he told Greek news site iEidiseis, adding, “But the wind really hasn’t dropped.”
In response, around 190 firefighters, supported by 38 vehicles, 12 helicopters, and four water-bombers, have been deployed to fight the flames, according to the fire service. The fires have already prompted evacuations: about a dozen localities and hundreds of asylum seekers at a reception center were forced to move on Sunday, and on Monday, seven villages had to be evacuated.
The island’s capital, Chios, is also under threat, with fires burning to the north, west, and south of the city. These fires have caused power outages and forced residents to flee their homes. Greece’s summer wildfire season is typically worsened by high winds, drought, and soaring temperatures linked to climate change. Forecasters warn of a coming heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C, including in Athens.
Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis described the situation as “critical,” noting that firefighting teams are still battling multiple active fronts, many near small hamlets. The authorities continue their urgent efforts to contain the fires amid worsening conditions.
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