Overview

• Fire fronts near Ierapetra remain active in forests and farmland, with strong winds and rugged terrain fueling flare-ups.
• Authorities have relocated over 5,000 residents and tourists to sports halls and hotels under expanded evacuation orders.
• The Lassithi region’s emergency declaration unlocks extra firefighting resources and travel restrictions in affected areas.
• More than 230 firefighters, backed by 10 water-dropping aircraft, helicopters and Coast Guard vessels, continue battling the blaze.
• Officials warn that record summer heat and prolonged drought are raising wildfire risk across Crete and southern Greece this season.