Mass evacuations are currently underway on the Greek island of Crete as a devastating wildfire sweeps across southern parts of the island.
High winds have helped the scorching flames spread across the southeastern part of the sunny island after the blaze erupted on Wednesday evening near the municipality of Ierapetra.
Emergency services are battling to contain the severe blaze, which is thought to be around 6km wide and posing a threat to homes and tourist attractions in the region.
Local reports reveal that around 1,500 people, including locals and tourists, have been evacuated from the Ferma municipality amid concerns that the blaze will continue to spread toward more populated areas. Hospitals on the island have been placed on alert as a precaution.
A spokesperson has confirmed that some people have already been taken to health centres after suffering from “respiratory problems."
Vassilis Vathrakogiannis, spokesman for the fire brigade in Cyprus, also explained that firefighting efforts are facing challenges because of the intense wind.
“There are wind gusts in the area, some measuring 9 on the Beaufort scale, which are triggering rekindling and hindering firefighting efforts," Vathrakogiannis said.
News of wildfires in southern Crete came just one week after tens of thousands of people were also evacuated from parts of Turkey as yet another wildfire threatened homes near Izmir.
Alongside the UK, Europe is facing sweltering conditions, which might make this summer one of the hottest on record. There are fears that the summer wildfires could intensify across Europe as temperatures increase due to man-made global warming.
So, which areas of Greece have been affected, and is it safe to travel there? Here’s what you need to know.
What areas have been affected?
The wildfires in Greece currently appear to be contained to the island of Crete, the country’s biggest island and a popular tourist hotspot. The fire is burning in the southeastern part of the island, with people in Agia Fotia, Achlia, Galini, Ferma, and Koutsounari instructed to head toward Ierapetra.
Meanwhile, the rest of mainland Greece and its surrounding islands swelter in scorching heatwave conditions that are expected to send the mercury soaring above 40 degrees in some parts.
Greece isn’t the only country battling wildfires at the moment, either.
Local reports reveal that two people died this week in Catalonia, northeastern Spain, as firefighters also battled to contain wildfires. Local authorities across various parts of Europe are monitoring conditions in case further fires erupt.
Is it safe to travel to Greece?
Travelling to and staying in areas around Ierapetra may be difficult at this time due to the ongoing situation. People are also being evacuated by boat, meaning there may be some issues regarding travel to and from the island.
According to the UK FCDO: “There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. Ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts to be warned of wildfires near your location. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.”
There hasn’t been an official travel warning issued by the UK FCDO at this time against travelling to Crete, but it’s best to speak with your hotel and airline for more guidance on the situation on the ground.
Travellers are encouraged to download ‘Emergency Alerts’ on their phones and to regularly check @112Greece for local updates.
Which islands aren’t affected by the wildfires?
Greece has more than 200 inhabited islands, and holidays are understood to be taking place as usual in most of these areas.
However, it’s a rapidly evolving situation, and soaring temperatures mean that fires can break out in other areas.
It’s best to stay up to date with the latest travel advice where you can.
