A major fire broke out on Thursday, 25 June 2026, at a paper manufacturing facility near residential homes in Heraklion, Crete. According to neakriti.gr, the blaze escalated rapidly due to the highly flammable materials stored at the site, prompting an immediate and large-scale response from the Hellenic Fire Service.
Three Homes Destroyed Amid Intense Blaze
As reported by LiveNews, three nearby homes were consumed by the fire. Early reports describe the incident as exceptionally intense — not only because of the combustible nature of paper and related materials, but also due to the factory’s location in a densely populated area, heightening concerns for public safety.
Massive Emergency Response Underway
According to the Hellenic Fire Service’s official Twitter account, 32 firefighters are on scene, supported by one infantry unit from the 3rd Mobile Disaster Response Unit (E.M.O.D.E.), eight fire engines, and one helicopter. The operation is ongoing.
The Greek emergency number 112 issued a public alert advising residents in the Agios Ioannis Chostou area of Heraklion to remain indoors, close all doors and windows, and follow official instructions. Thick smoke has been visible across much of the city, triggering widespread concern among local residents and prompting heightened coordination among emergency authorities.