Wednesday, July 29 – A major wildfire is underway on the south Aegean island of Paros, with firefighting forces continuing to battle the flames throughout the night. The fire broke out yesterday afternoon and spread rapidly due to high temperatures and strong winds.

Due to the severity of the situation, the following ten settlements have been evacuated: Trypiti, Glyfa, Pyrgaki, Aspro Chorio, Ageria, Agios Charalambos, Kambi, Bougados, Aneratza and Kamari.

The situation continues to cause great concern, with additional firefighting personnel and equipment deployed today. So far, 66 firefighters with four forest commando units are in attendance, with 16 fire engines, two aircraft, and five helicopters, one of which is used to coordinate operations, with additional aerial vehicles likely to be called on. Another 20 firefighters are scheduled to arrive by ferry this morning from Rafina along with eight fire engines.