Wildfire Rages on Paros as Settlements Evacuated and Stronger Winds Threaten Efforts

A major wildfire continues to burn on the Greek island of Paros for a second day, prompting the evacuation of several settlements as authorities warn that stronger winds could further complicate firefighting efforts. The blaze is moving toward the area of Tripiti, with residents evacuated from Tripiti, Glyfa, Pyrgaki, Aspro Chorio, Ageria, Agios Charalambos, Kambi, Bougados, Aneratza and Kamari. Local officials said there were instances where residents had to be forcibly removed from their homes for their own safety.

Firefighters remain on high alert as weather conditions are expected to deteriorate. Paros has been placed in Category 3, or High Fire Risk, on Greece’s Fire Risk Forecast Map for Wednesday, July 29. The Mayor of Paros warned that winds are expected to strengthen from midday, raising concerns that the fire could spread more rapidly across the island.

Smoke from the wildfire has already been reported on the neighbouring islands of Ios, Sifnos and Serifos, highlighting the scale of the blaze. Reinforcements continue to arrive on the island, with an additional 20 firefighters and eight fire engines being deployed from Rafina to assist local crews. Seven aerial firefighting aircraft and helicopters are participating in operations, carrying out water drops in difficult terrain as authorities work to contain the flames.

The Deputy Mayor for Civil Protection of Paros said emergency services intervened to evacuate residents who were reluctant to leave their homes. Authorities are urging both residents and visitors to follow evacuation orders immediately and avoid affected areas. Emergency services remain on heightened alert as firefighting efforts continue throughout the day.

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