Paros: Next hours critical for full control of wildfire

The firefighting operation on the Greek island of Paros continued on Wednesday, with ground crews and two helicopters deployed as strong winds caused repeated flare-ups.

Wind speeds in the area reached as high as 8 Beaufort, according to Charilaos Giourtzidis, deputy mayor for Civil Protection of the Municipality of Paros.

Speaking to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), Giourtzidis said ground forces were operating at the scene, supported by two helicopters making continuous water drops. Despite the difficult weather, the situation had improved and almost all fronts were showing signs of dying down. Authorities remained on high alert, however, as strong winds could spark new outbreaks or rekindle existing hotspots at any time.

On damage, Giourtzidis reported that so far only the exterior of one residence had been affected, while two storage facilities were destroyed. There have been no reports of injuries or extensive damage to homes.

Conditions now allow the safe return of residents who had been evacuated as a precaution. The deputy mayor said the evacuations had effectively ended and that “everything is gradually returning to normal,” while authorities continue to closely monitor the fire front.

Firefighting forces remained on heightened alert as gale-force winds sweeping across the Cyclades continued to pose the greatest challenge. The next few hours were considered critical for bringing the blaze fully under control and preventing further flare-ups.

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