Fierce Fires Continue to Rage in Chios: A Difficult Night for Firefighters

The firefighting effort remains fully engaged on the island of Chios as fire crews continue their relentless battle against several wildfires. Despite some improvement in conditions, there is still significant concern about potential flare-ups. A notable example occurred earlier when a fire reignited near Agios Georgios Sikousis, prompting an urgent response from firefighters and local residents. Consequently, a new alert was issued by emergency services shortly after 22:00 on Monday evening (June 23), urging those in the areas of Verberato and Zifiás to evacuate towards the city of Chios. A large number of firefighting units have been deployed to Mastichochoria, encouraged by reports that winds have partially subsided. According to politischios.gr, approximately 62,000 acres of forest and grassland have been scorched so far. Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Giannis Kefalogiannis visited Chios, accompanied by Secretary General of Civil Protection Nikos Papaeustathios due to the alarming situation caused by five separate fire fronts. At the Mobile Operational Center ‘Olympus,’ they received detailed updates from Fire Service Chief Lieutenant General Georgios Markoulakis before convening a Coordination Committee meeting with regional authorities and all involved agencies. The minister emphasized, “We will not hide behind words: When fires break out simultaneously in such dispersed locations, we must speak about suspicious activity. If it is confirmed that these are coordinated arson attacks, then we are dealing with a dangerous, criminal assault against society, the environment, and life itself.”