A devastating wildfire that erupted in the mountainous region of Limassol, Cyprus, has led to an unprecedented national crisis. Two people have died, dozens have been injured, over 100 square kilometres of land have been burned, and entire communities displaced. The fire is believed to have been deliberately set, with investigations ongoing into suspected arson.
Where and when it started:
- The wildfire broke out around midday on Wednesday (23 July) in the village of Mallia.
- Strong winds and dry conditions quickly spread the flames across multiple villages in the semi-mountainous and mountainous Limassol district.
- 14 villages have been evacuated as a result.
The victims:
- Two elderly individuals were found burned in a vehicle on the Monagri–Alassa road.
- Authorities are still working to confirm their identities.
- Two more individuals are being treated for serious burns at Nicosia General Hospital’s Burns Clinic.
Cause of the fire: Arson suspected:
- Witnesses reported seeing people fleeing the area where the fire started.
- Police spokesperson Kyriaki Lambrianidou confirmed eyewitness testimony suggesting malicious intent.
- Multiple ignition points were found, raising strong suspicion of arson.
- Investigations are ongoing, and the public is urged to report any information to the police.
Scale of destruction:
- At least 53 homes damaged; 32 completely destroyed (including in Vouni, Mallia, Alassa, and Souni-Zanatzia).
- 88 vehicles reported destroyed.
- 300 electricity poles, 30 transformers, and one substation damaged.
- Several agricultural units, animal pens, orchards, and even a chapel have been lost.
Evacuations and danger zones:
- Villages on alert include: Omodos, Arsos, Koilani, Vasa Koilaniou, Pachna, Lofou, Vouni, and Sotira (now officially evacuated).
- Residents were trapped in Lofou, but were successfully rescued.
- Platres currently remains safe, but under close monitoring.
Firefighting efforts:
- 13 firefighting aircraft, including coordinating aircraft, are deployed.
- Over 15 ground units are on the front lines.
- Aerial firefighting assistance has arrived or is en route from:
- Jordan (2 aircraft)
- Spain (2 Canadair aircraft via EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism)
- EU, Israel, and other countries have offered assistance.
Healthcare and injuries:
- 38 individuals have received first aid.
- 5 people hospitalised, 2 in serious condition.
- Emergency First Aid Centre set up in Erimi.
Power outages:
- Power disrupted in at least 18 communities, including:
- Agios Amvrosios, Agios Therapon, Alassa, Arsos, Kolossi, Pachna, Silikou, Souni, and more.
- Mobile generators deployed to key villages to support residents.
Government response:
- President Nikos Christodoulides cancelled official duties to visit the Coordination Centre.
- Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed:
- Immediate financial support
- Full restoration of damages
- Temporary accommodation and basic needs coverage
- Ministers of Justice and Agriculture are overseeing on-site coordination.
Community and civil support:
- Political parties have all mobilised to support affected citizens.
- Hotel Association PASYXE has offered rooms for displaced residents.
- Municipalities (e.g., Amathus, Limassol) have set up emergency shelters and donation centres.
- Animal rescue and veterinary services are also volunteering assistance.
- Major retailers like Alphamega have donated supplies and opened stores for refuge.
Public reaction & criticism:
- Widespread anger at the perceived failure of the state’s emergency preparedness.
- Environmental organisations and community leaders describe a “clear institutional failure”.
- Reports of delayed aerial support and absent Civil Defence have fuelled public frustration.
- Some residents say they were left to defend homes on their own.
Ecological Impact:
- Entire forest ecosystems have burned.
- Wildlife deaths and habitat destruction are extensive.
- Environmental groups call for:
- Independent investigation
- Strict land-use protections
- Ecological restoration based on scientific research
Key Emergency Numbers:
- Police (Arson Info): 25 805383 / 25 805057
- Civil Defence & Crisis Support: 22-403450 / 22-403451 / 22-403452
- Limassol Reception Centre (“Ploutis Servas”): 25348040
Road closures:
- Roads between Trimiklini–Laneia–Alassa and Vouni–Agios Ambrosios–Kyvides remain closed.
- Detours available via Palodia–Paramytha–Agros and Saittas–Apesia–Korfi.
Weather alert:
- Red alert for wildfire risk declared by the Forestry Department.
- Winds expected to increase again by midday today, making the situation even more dangerous.
The situation remains critical
While firefighters have made some progress, flare-ups continue in several areas. Winds, high temperatures, and rugged terrain continue to pose significant challenges.
Containment is ongoing, and the full extent of damage will only become clear in the coming days.
Also read: LIVE/Limassol fire: 2 dead, arsons suspected – Fury and despair
