Greece: Wildfire prompts localized evacuations in Rethymno District, Crete, as of early Aug. 8

Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire in Rethymno District, Crete, as of early Aug. 8. The fire broke out at around 12:00 Aug. 7 on the border of the municipalities of Agios Vasilios and Amari. More than 200 firefighting personnel are on site tackling the blaze, which has grown to around 800 hectares (2,000 acres). Authorities have ordered residents of Agia Paraskevi to evacuate toward Mandres due to the threat of the fire. Officials have also advised the neighboring villages of Agios Ionais, Apodoulou, and Chordaki to remain alert and to be ready to leave if necessary. Further wildfire growth is possible over the coming hours and days.

The fire could cause power outages and disruptions to transport and business in the area. The status of roads can change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close additional routes within the fire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and response operations needs. Traffic disruptions are also possible during reentry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Smoke from the fire may also noticeably worsen air quality in the area over the short term. Smoke from fires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with preexisting respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).