16 Sep 2019 | 09:51 AM UTC
Greece: Evacuation orders issued in Zakynthos Island and another wildfire reported in the Loutraki region September 15
Evacuation orders issued in ongoing Zakynthos wildfire while another breaks out in the Loutraki region; follow authority directives
Event
A wildfire on the Greek island of Zakynthos has prompted evacuation orders by authorities on Sunday, September 15. Authorities indicated that an estimated 300 residents were evacuated from the villages of Keri and Agalas as a precaution. Winds are not expected to subside before Thursday, September 19, possibly causing the fire to spread further. A total of 100 firefighters have been battling the wildfire, with the support of 28 fire trucks over the weekend.
No injuries or deaths have been reported as of Monday, September 16.
Further, another wildfire was reported in the Loutraki region, about 80 km (50 mi) west of Athens. About 70 fires were registered over 24 hours with the participation of 160 firefighters working over the weekend to control it. Some 50 people were evacuated from a monastery on Saturday, September 14, when the fire started.
Further spread of wildfires is possible over the coming hours and days. Localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near the fires.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments, avoid the vicinity of the blazes, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
