People evacuated from beach as wildfire tears through north Greece

A large wildfire broke out in Siviri in Greece’s northern Halkidiki region, prompting an evacuation order via a 112 alert.

Firefighting numbers on the ground are being constantly reinforced and nine aircraft and seven helicopters are operating from the air, while water tankers from the Municipality of Kassandra are also assisting in efforts to contain the blaze.

A total of 110 firefighters are taking part in the firefighting operation, along with three teams from the 2nd EMODE Special Forest Operations Unit and 33 fire engines.

The forces deployed also include 12 firefighters from Moldova with three vehicles, who are in Greece as part of the European programme for the pre-positioning of firefighting resources.

Shortly after 16:30 local time the flames reached the first houses in Siviri.

After the initial 112 warning to residents and those close to the fire front, a second alert followed, calling for the evacuation of citizens from the wider area around the settlement of Siviri in the direction of Kassandreia. At the same time, an evacuation order was also issued for the settlement of Fourka.

Evacuation of residents by sea

Shortly after 17:00 local time, the Hellenic Coast Guard, with the assistance of private boats, began evacuating people from the beach of Siviri.

Two Coast Guard vessels and nine private craft are at the scene, while the Speedrunner Jet high-speed ferry has also arrived to assist.

A ban on the movement of pedestrians and all types of vehicles, due to the high risk of wildfires, is being put in place in forest areas of the Municipalities of Kassandra, Sithonia and Aristotle, by decision of the deputy regional governor of Halkidiki, Giannis Koufidis.

The ban is expected to be in force from 8 am-8 pm on 14 August in several areas of the Municipalities of Kassandra and Sithonia.

To enforce the measure, checks will be carried out at the entrances to forest roads with the assistance of the police and those present in the above areas will be removed, with the exception of members of volunteer organisations taking part in the fire protection actions of the Regional Unit of Halkidiki.

The Regional Unit of Halkidiki is appealing to residents and visitors to comply with the ban and follow the instructions of the competent authorities, contributing to the protection of human life, forest ecosystems and public property.

Violating the order carries an administrative fine of €300, in accordance with current legislation.