The toxic cloud that formed over Thessaloniki following the large fire in Oraiokastro on Saturday night continues to cause significant concern in the city. Although the fire has now been brought under control, black smoke and airborne particles spread over a wide area, covering the city’s sky for hours.

It is recalled that three industrial facilities were destroyed in the fire.

Professor of Environmental and Health Engineering, Demosthenes Sarigiannis, explained on SKAI how the cloud was formed, noting that it contained a particularly dangerous mixture of substances.

“It was a cloud that contained a mixture of soot, combined with toxic chemicals, carcinogens, such as toxins, furans, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which result from combustion products, especially from the burning of artificial materials such as plastics and metals.”

As he stated, these substances are extremely harmful to human health. “These substances are highly carcinogenic and are also bioaccumulative, meaning they remain in the body for about 16 years, a little over 16 years. It was a dangerous situation, but it is much better now; the wind carried this cloud further away, it did not remain only locally in the area.”

Mr. Sarigiannis also noted that the area most affected was Kalamaria, which, as he explained, is related to the trajectory of the cloud and where the airborne particles settled.

Although measurements show an improved situation compared to previous hours, the professor advised citizens to continue taking protective measures.

“People should circulate with masks to reduce exposure, not only due to carcinogenic substances, but also because soot itself can clearly cause respiratory problems for vulnerable individuals.”

At the same time, according to the Fire Service’s Investigative Department, the fire is attributed to criminal negligence. The investigation found that a 76-year-old driver, who was under the influence of alcohol, allegedly caused sparks with his vehicle, which then ignited dry vegetation and led to the outbreak of the major fire.