A fast-moving wildfire broke out Saturday evening near Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, prompting evacuations in three northern suburbs and damaging several businesses. The fire ignited around 8:30 p.m. in a mountainous ravine and spread quickly across plains, burning mostly brush, according to the Hellenic Fire Service.
Residents of the settlements of Anthoupoli, Filothei, and Galini received evacuation notifications via text message. A facility housing 157 individuals with special needs was also evacuated. Approximately 120 residents capable of walking were temporarily sheltered in a gymnasium, while the remaining individuals were moved to a psychiatric hospital, local authorities reported.
Authorities announced early Sunday that a 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of starting the fire. A Hellenic Fire Service statement indicated the man “appeared not to be sober.”
Residents of Thessaloniki could see the flames and hear explosions from burning flammable materials within businesses. A dense smoke cloud settled over several suburbs and western parts of the city. Firefighters battled the blaze with approximately 115 personnel, 38 fire engines, and an unspecified number of volunteers. Firefighting aircraft were deployed but ceased operations after dark. Strong winds complicated containment efforts.
While the fire was not indicated to be moving toward the city, firefighters remained on alert, with reinforcements expected. Greece, accustomed to hot, dry, and windy summers, has experienced wildfires in other regions recently. A significant wildfire in central Greece on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of a man and his 12-year-old son and necessitated evacuations. Additional fires were active Saturday in the Halkidiki Peninsula, a popular tourist destination, and near the city of Kilkis to the north. Greece has thus far avoided the extreme heat affecting other parts of Europe.