Wednesday, August 6 – Wildfires caused by lightning strikes have broken out earlier this evening on the west of the island near the villages of Prinos, Maries and Kazaviti (Micro & Megalos Prinos). The island’s fire department has stated that a large contingent of firefighters and locals are involved in fighting the fires.

Two Canadair water-dropping planes and further firefighting aircraft supported the ground forces, but have now returned to their mainland base.

However, further firefighters and their vehicles from the Kavala area on the mainland are crossing over to the island to support the local forces.

The Maries fire broke out in the forested area near Lake Marion, above the village of Maries.

Update, 21:00 – At present, no residential areas are threatened. Three of four outbreaks are under control, but the fourth, located near Prinos, is still causing concern.

The glow from the blazes can be seen from Thassos Town, which is 10 km northeast of the fires.

Further thunderstorms are forecast during the night.