After 48 hours of intense firefighting, the wildfire in Chios continues to rage, threatening the island’s iconic mastichochoria- villages known for producing the world-renowned Chios mastic.
Hundreds of firefighters, volunteers, and local residents are mounting what authorities have called “the mother of all battles” to stop the advancing flames before they reach the critical mastic groves in southern Chios.
Throughout the night, strong ground forces worked to contain the blaze between Dafnonas and Agios Georgios Sykousis, in the southwestern region of the island. The Fire Service confirmed that efforts have focused on preventing flare-ups and securing populated areas.
Massive response as Chios declares emergency
A total of 444 firefighters are now deployed, bolstered by reinforcements from Athens, Thessaloniki, Kavala and Lesvos. They are supported by 21 forest command units, 85 vehicles, and 30 volunteers with four fire trucks.
With the first light of day, aerial support resumed. Eight aircraft- two planes and six helicopters- began water drops over the fire zones. In total, four planes and 14 helicopters have been allocated for the day, operating in shifts to maintain continuous coverage.
The mobile operations centre “Olympus” is also on-site, while water tankers and earth-moving equipment from the Greek Army and local authorities are supporting the effort.
Evacuations ordered via 112 alert system
As the wildfire in Chios escalated overnight, the Civil Protection Authority issued three evacuation alerts via the 112 emergency service. Residents of Lithí and Vessa were told to leave their homes and head to designated safety areas in Neochori and Armolia.
Chios has officially been declared in a state of civil protection emergency.
The situation remains fluid, and firefighting efforts are expected to continue throughout the day.
Also read: Chios wildfires spread on three fronts – Homes at risk
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