Greek authorities dispatched additional firefighters to Crete to combat a raging wildfire that forced the evacuation of eight villages. The blaze swept through olive groves and farmland, damaging infrastructure but sparing coastal resorts. With 250 firefighters already on the scene, 40 specialist unit members from Athens joined the effort late Thursday.
No injuries or severe property damage have been reported. Strong winds hindered firefighting operations, supported by a fleet of waterbombing aircraft and helicopters. Despite the aircraft halting nighttime operations, firefighters aimed to capitalize on calmer winds overnight to contain the fire.
Greece has faced over 2,000 wildfires this summer due to climatic changes. The dry winter and hot spring facilitated rapid fire spread, prompting the government to invest in firefighting resources. On Thursday, 35 wildfires erupted nationwide in a 24-hour period.
The fire in Rethymno began on Wednesday, receding temporarily before reigniting. The situation underscores the ongoing battle against wildfires in Greece amid heightened fire risks and environmental factors.
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