Greece: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfires near Alexandroupoli, Evros Region, as of Aug. 22 /update 3

Event

Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfires burning near Alexandroupoli in the Evros Region of East Macedonia and Thrace as of Aug. 22. A major fire broke out near the village of Melia east of Alexandroupoli early Aug. 19 and has grown to at least 4,600 hectares (11,367 acres) in size. More than 200 firefighting personnel are on site battling the blaze. Several other fires have ignited in the surrounding area in recent days, including a fire that broke out in the Dadia National Forest area on Aug. 21. Authorities reported one fatality near Alexandroupoli on Aug. 21, and 18 bodies were found in the Dadia Forest area Aug. 22. The deceased are believed to be migrants who crossed into the region from Turkey, as authorities have not received any reports of missing persons. Windy, hot, and dry conditions are fanning the flames; further wildfire growth is likely in the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for at least 12 settlements in the vicinity of the Alexandroupoli fire, including the villages of Melia, Avantas, Monastiraki, Doriskos, Amfitritis, and Maistros. Officials also evacuated some patients from Alexandroupoli's university hospital Aug. 22 as the flames threatened the city itself. Residents in Alexandroupoli have been advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the threat of smoke and ash from the fire. The fires have reportedly damaged several homes in the affected villages in the region.

Authorities in Turkiye reopened the Ipsala border crossing with Greece on Aug. 21 after it was closed on Aug. 20 due to the fire. Despite the reopening, residual disruptions may occur even at the crossing due to a backlog of traffic; further closures are possible depending on the evolution of the fire. Several roads on the Greek side of the border remain closed, including sections of the Kipi-Alexandroupolis highway which leads to the border crossing.

Depending on the progression of the wildfire, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Heavy smoke, low visibility, and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays, congestion, and air transport disruptions in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.