A major wildfire broke out near Akraifnio in Boeotia on Monday, June 22, 2026, causing severe material damage and significant livestock losses. Fueled by strong winds sweeping across the region, the fire rapidly expanded—spreading approximately four kilometers. It crossed the National Highway toward the intersection of Taxiarchis Street and the old hospital in the area.
Challenging Firefighting Efforts
Despite the immediate response from the Hellenic Fire Service—including road closures at critical points—the blaze proved extremely difficult to contain due to the intensity of the wind and the speed of its advance.
Devastation at a Large Livestock Farm
The hardest-hit site was a major livestock farm located just above the village cemetery. The entire cattle pen was completely destroyed by flames. Farm machinery used for both agricultural and animal husbandry operations was also severely damaged or lost.
According to local reports, the farm housed around 60 calves and a flock of sheep. Many animals perished in the fire, while others escaped—frightened and scattered across surrounding fields.
Damage to Agricultural Land
The fire also inflicted serious harm on the primary sector: extensive olive groves and pistachio orchards were consumed by flames, adding to the economic toll on local farmers.
Local Resident’s Account
Nikos Andritsos, a resident of Akraifnio, spoke with Orange Press Agency about the incident, describing the fire’s alarming speed and scale: “The fire moved incredibly fast—there was too much wind, which fed it intensely. Firefighters responded immediately and closed off certain roads, but the blaze remained uncontrollable because of the wind. It covered a huge area—many olive trees and pistachio trees burned. At the nearby farm, there were 60 calves, plus sheep I saw, and several machines. Some equipment was saved, but the damage overall was massive. The fire traveled roughly four kilometers, crossed the National Highway heading toward the old hospital and the Taxiarchis intersection—its size there was enormous, again because of the wind.”