Overview
- Chalkidiki fires on Thursday pushed flames close to houses and beaches, prompting phone evacuation orders and the sea rescue of more than 250 holidaymakers from Siviri and Fourka.
- Fire crews used aircraft, helicopters and about 150 firefighters to fight the Chalkidiki blaze, but strong winds repeatedly limited aerial operations and slowed containment.
- Greek and foreign authorities reported that major fires on Crete were largely inactive as of August 12, yet they warned the island remains at high risk and advised people to follow official alerts.
- Earlier this period a large wildfire northwest of Athens burned more than 11,000 hectares and took several days to bring under control, showing how wind and dry conditions can sustain fast, long fires.
- Tourists face uneven protection: pauschal (package) travellers have clearer cancellation and relocation rights while individually booked guests must check contracts and insurers should confirm coverage before claiming refunds.