The situation in Ierapetra remains dramatic as a massive wildfire, which broke out on Wednesday afternoon (02.07.2025), continues to wreak havoc across the region. Hotel evacuations, destroyed homes, and vast areas reduced to ashes paint a tragic picture in the area. At first light, aerial firefighting units resumed water-dropping operations in an effort to contain the large fire front near Ierapetra.
Reinforcements from Athens have arrived to support local firefighting efforts. Shortly after 12:30 AM, 35 firefighters arrived via a C-130 aircraft from Elefsina, with another 50 expected to arrive by ferry early Thursday morning.
Evacuations began at 4 PM, when residents of Agia Fotia, Achlia, Gales, and Fermas were urged to move toward Ierapetra. At 8 PM, emergency services issued a second alert for the evacuation of these areas as well as Koutsounari.
Earlier, civilians were evacuated from beaches using boats. Four individuals were transported to the hospital due to respiratory issues, while authorities had to intervene in several cases to help residents leave their homes.
Firefighting forces were reinforced throughout Wednesday night, bringing the total number of personnel to 155 firefighters, supported by 8 ground teams, 38 vehicles, heavy machinery, and water tankers from local authorities.
The Municipality of Ierapetra, in coordination with relevant agencies, opened the city’s indoor gymnasium to host displaced residents and visitors. Around 1,500 people have been safely relocated to the town.
The National Emergency Service (EKAV) is on high alert across the Lasithi region, operating in full coordination with local authorities.
Thursday is expected to be a particularly difficult day for Crete, as the island remains under an orange alert for wildfires. According to the Fire Risk Prediction Map issued by the General Secretariat of Civil Protection under the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, today forecasts an extremely high fire risk (Level 4 danger) for Crete.