In brief
A wildfire that ignited on Tuesday has spiralled out of control in the forests northwest of Thessaloniki, leaving two bodies recovered, a woman with burn injuries hospitalized, and a 12‑year‑old missing. Over 100 firefighters, dozens of engines and seven aircraft are deployed to fight a flame wall extending roughly 5km. The fire arose in a high‑risk area with dry conditions and strong winds, and property damage is being reported as it threatens nearby villages. Greek authorities have urged residents to evacuate while the blaze continues to spread.
A wildfire that sparked at about 14:30 local time Tuesday has surged across the pine‑stringed countryside northwest of Thessaloniki, engulfing homes and forest alike.
Two bodies were recovered – a man found amid charred remains near Liti, and another suspected victim discovered inside a rural house. A woman treated for severe burns has survived, while a 12‑year‑old child who vanished while the blaze raged remains missing and is believed to be the son of the deceased male and the injured woman.
The emergency response drew more than 100 firefighters, dozens of fire engines, and at least seven aircraft, yet crews fought a 5‑kilometre wall of flame that kept spreading despite the efforts.
Investigation of the fire’s origin remains pending as the deadly combination of dry weather and strong winds kept the flames rampant. Greek authorities have issued a high wildfire‑risk warning for the region and urged residents of Liti to leave their homes as the inferno pushes toward the village of Melissochori.
With summer in full swing and tourism season beginning, the rising trend of wildfires across the island has again proven its deadly reach, reminding all that vigilance and swift action are critical in mitigating such catastrophes.
