The fire in Oreokastro, Thessaloniki, is now under better control approximately 9 hours after it broke out, however, the fire that broke out yesterday, Saturday, at the recycling plant—where there were also continuous explosions—remains active.
Local businesses suffered total destruction, as a recycling plant, a fireplace manufacturing workshop, and a motor oil factory were completely burned down.
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The village of Filothei was spared, as according to Pavlos Melas Mayor Dimitris Aslanidis, no houses were burned, only yards and a few outbuildings.
Significant firefighting resources remain on site, including 160 firefighters, 5 ground crews, and 52 vehicles, along with volunteers and volunteer groups.
At first light, aerial water drops began, involving 2 aircraft and 2 helicopters, while orders have been issued for additional aerial support.
The Regional Authority, the Army, the Hellenic Police (ELAS), and the National Ambulance Service (EKAV), providing water tankers, heavy equipment, the “Deukalion” team, traffic control, and medical coverage.
Four 112 alerts were sent to residents, instructing them to evacuate Anthoupoli and Filothei, as well as to take protective measures due to the thick smoke.
Four firefighters were taken to the hospital during the operation, three with respiratory problems and one with an injury.
A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of starting the fire as part of the investigation by the relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, 60 fires broke out across the country in the last 24 hours. In Central Macedonia, 16 wildfires broke out almost simultaneously, mainly after 12:30 p.m., causing firefighting forces to be spread thin.
The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection emphasized that today’s fires have once again highlighted the importance of keeping land clear of debris. Removing dry grass and combustible material can limit the spread of fire and buy critical time for firefighters, the ministry stated in a related update.
Source: PROTO THEMA/ANA-MPA
