A fire broke out on Thursday afternoon, July 9, 2026, in Kalochori — a coastal area of Thessaloniki — at the yard of a business located in the Kalochori Industrial Zone. Emergency services were alerted around 3 p.m., though the national emergency number 112 had received an earlier alert. According to reports, the blaze quickly spread to a neighboring factory, prompting an intensive response from firefighting units.
Under Partial Control, But Work Continues
The fire is now under partial control. Firefighters have contained the main front within the factory premises and are continuing efforts to fully extinguish remaining hotspots. Two firefighting helicopters that conducted repeated water drops have since withdrawn, as aerial support was no longer deemed necessary.
Evacuation Not Required, But Residents Advised to Stay Indoors
Authorities activated the 112 emergency alert system shortly after the fire began, advising residents of Kalochori and nearby areas — including Sindos and Diavata — to remain indoors with doors and windows closed due to dense smoke blanketing the region. No evacuations were ordered, though officials emphasized adherence to self-protection guidelines. Despite this, many locals remained outdoors during the incident.
Origin and Possible Cause
According to the business owner, the fire originated in the outdoor yard, where dry grass and waste materials were present. Investigators are examining whether human action may have triggered the blaze. Local media report that arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Large-Scale Response and Official Involvement
Approximately 30 firefighters responded using 12 vehicles. Additional support came from water tankers operated by the Delta municipality and the Region of Central Macedonia. Deputy Minister of National Defence for Macedonia and Thrace, Kostas Gkioulekas, visited the site during operations and was briefed by fire service leadership. At the time, crews requested extra water tankers to bolster their efforts.
Wind-Fueled Spread and Damage Assessment
Strong winds at the time of ignition accelerated the fire’s spread into the interior of the facility, causing extensive damage. Initial assessments indicate near-total destruction of the factory building. Thanks to the rapid deployment of fire services, the blaze was prevented from spreading to adjacent industrial units and residential neighborhoods located behind the facility.
Smoke Drift and Ongoing Monitoring
A thick smoke plume drifted toward Sindos and Diavata but did not pose an immediate threat to homes. Authorities continue monitoring air quality and urging public compliance with safety instructions while investigations remain ongoing.