Firefighting teams in Thasos battled through the night to contain a wildfire that broke out at 11 p.m. on Wednesday in the Glykadi area, near the island’s capital, Limenas.
The fire, which began for unknown reasons, spread rapidly due to strong winds in the area. With the first light of day, aerial firefighting aircraft began water drops, allowing the fire front to be brought under control. As of now, the blaze is reported to be in recession.
During the night, there was significant mobilisation of firefighting forces and hundreds of volunteers who rushed to assist in the effort. Ferries from the ports of Kavala and Keramoti transported fire engines and heavy equipment to Thasos to aid in firefighting operations, as the blaze repeatedly threatened to grow out of control due to the intensity of the winds.
Although no residential areas were in immediate danger, one hotel was evacuated as a precaution. The situation caused concern among tourists staying on the island, many of whom made their way to the island’s port during the night in an attempt to leave.
The coordination between ground forces, volunteers, and private individuals was crucial in preventing the worst-case scenario and helped stop the fire from spreading further. Had it reached the PPC (Public Power Corporation) substation, there was a real risk that the entire island could have been plunged into darkness.
🚨🔥 A major wildfire is burning on the Greek island of Thasos. Reinforcements are arriving overnight from Kavala as strong winds worsen conditions.
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) July 9, 2025
Most of the island is without power, and several roads have been closed due to the fire.pic.twitter.com/s9RYkh6Fgg
A total of 55 firefighters with 15 fire engines, two specialised foot patrol units from the 7th Special Forest Firefighting Unit (EPODE), water tankers from the local municipalities, and quarry machinery from the island’s marble industry were involved in the operation.
Καίγεται η Θάσος.
— Antifastroke (@antifas19490379) July 10, 2025
Το μεγαλύτερο μέρος του νησιού χωρίς ρεύμα.#φωτια pic.twitter.com/6QS8E8MsIo
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Source: Spyros Gounaropoulos – CNN Greece
