The major wildfire that broke out on Saturday night (4 July) in Oreokastro, Thessaloniki, no longer has an active front, after firefighters battled the blaze throughout the night. Daylight revealed extensive material damage to factories in the area.
On Sunday morning (5 July), conditions had improved significantly, with firefighting crews focusing on a recycling plant that was still burning. Earlier, explosions inside the burning facility had been continuous. Just a few metres away, a fireplace manufacturing workshop was completely destroyed, while a factory producing motor oils was also reduced to ashes.
At present, the main concern remains the fire at the recycling plant. In the settlement of Filothei, the situation was described as satisfactory, as no homes were destroyed. According to Pavlos Melas Mayor Dimitris Aslanidis, apart from some yards and makeshift structures that were reached by the flames, no significant damage was recorded.
Strong firefighting response
With the first light of day, aerial firefighting operations resumed, involving two aircraft and two helicopters, while additional air support has been requested.
The operation also involves 160 firefighters, five specialised ground teams, 50 vehicles and volunteers.
Water tankers and heavy machinery from the Region of Central Macedonia, as well as earthmoving equipment from the Directorate for Construction and Natural Disaster Response, are assisting in the effort. The Greek Armed Forces also activated the DEUCALION unit to support firefighting operations.
At the same time, police forces have been deployed to manage traffic, while emergency medical teams remain on standby for immediate intervention if required.
Four firefighters hospitalised
According to Greece’s National Centre for Emergency Care (EKAB), three firefighters suffering from respiratory problems and one firefighter with an orthopaedic injury were transferred to the 424 General Military Hospital.
The firefighters are receiving the necessary medical treatment, while the entire health system, including emergency services and local hospitals, remains on full operational alert. No other injuries have been reported so far.
76-year-old arrested
Meanwhile, authorities arrested a 76-year-old man suspected of causing the wildfire.
Following a thorough investigation, the collection and assessment of evidence and witness testimonies, authorities confirmed the man’s involvement.
According to preliminary findings and his reported confession, cited by the Athens News Agency, the 76-year-old caused the fire through dangerous driving behaviour that generated sparks and ignited the blaze.
Investigators also determined that he showed clear signs of intoxication.
He was arrested under the summary procedure as the alleged person responsible for causing the fire and is being brought before the competent prosecutorial authorities.
Source: News24/7.gr
Also read: Kiti house fire sparked by candle leaves owner in hospital
