A major fire broke out on Thursday, 25 June 2026, at a paper manufacturing facility in the Agios Ioannis Chostos area of central Heraklion, Crete — a densely populated residential zone. According to neakriti.gr, the blaze escalated rapidly due to the highly flammable materials stored on-site, prompting an immediate and large-scale response from the Hellenic Fire Service.
Spread to Residential Buildings
As reported by LiveNews, the fire spread to nearby homes and businesses. Initial reports confirm that three houses and one shop have been fully consumed by flames. There are no reports of people trapped inside, but firefighters are engaged in a difficult battle to contain the fire front and prevent further spread.
Challenging Conditions
The intensity of the blaze is heightened by the nature of the combustible material involved — paper and related stock — while strong winds and narrow streets are hampering access for fire engines and slowing response efforts.
Escalating Response
Initially, 32 firefighters, eight vehicles, one foot patrol unit from the 3rd E.M.O.D.E. (Emergency Response Unit), and one helicopter were deployed. Later, reinforcements brought the total to 75 firefighters, 15 vehicles, a crane truck, a specialized team from the 3rd EMAC (Emergency Response and Disaster Management Unit), and continued aerial support.
Public Alert via 112
Due to the severity of the incident and dense smoke spreading across the city, Greece’s national emergency number 112 activated its public alert system. Residents received SMS warnings advising them to stay indoors, close doors and windows, and follow official instructions. Thick smoke has been visible across much of Heraklion, prompting widespread concern among local residents and intensifying coordination between emergency services.