A wildfire that started at noon on July 2, 2025, in Aghios Fotis near Ierapetra is currently raging out of control between the areas of Agia Fotia and Skinokapsala. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with a large-scale mobilization underway due to the density of the forested area and strong winds hampering efforts.
According to reports from Neakriti, 36 firefighters, several units from the 3rd EMOFDE (Emergency Response Unit), 12 fire trucks, and two helicopters dispatched from Heraklion are involved in suppression operations. The helicopters are making continuous water drops in an effort to prevent the flames from reaching nearby hotels, which are now under threat.
The Greek emergency service 112 has issued multiple alerts urging residents in the villages of Agia Fotia, Aghliá, Galini, Fermi, and most recently Koutsounari, to evacuate towards Ierapetra. Smoke from the fire has already reached the sea near Makry Gialos, blanketing coastal areas.
Authorities have emphasized that evacuations are precautionary and no settlements are currently under direct threat. However, concerns remain as flames continue to spread uncontrollably. Ierapetra Mayor Manolis Frangoulis expressed concern over the proximity of the fire to residential and tourist areas, while Deputy Mayor Nektarios Papadakis described the situation on the ground as challenging.
Residents and visitors are urged to follow instructions from local authorities and heed all 112 emergency alerts.