Firefighting operations remain extremely challenging as crews continue to battle a wildfire that broke out in low vegetation near Melidochori, in the Heraklion regional unit of Crete. The main fire front is burning above the settlement, with firefighters engaged in an intense effort to bring it under control.

Strong winds in the area are constantly shifting the direction of the fire, creating new flare-ups far from the original ignition point and making suppression efforts increasingly difficult. According to reports, the flames are spreading through a ravine, complicating access for ground crews and limiting their ability to intervene.

Several facilities in the area were threatened by the blaze but, according to the latest information, were saved at the last moment thanks to the efforts of firefighters.

Meanwhile, aerial firefighting operations are continuing, although strong winds inside the ravine are making flights and water drops difficult. Helicopters are carrying out continuous water refills from a nearby reservoir and repeatedly attacking the fire front in an effort to slow the fire’s spread.

Following the reinforcement of firefighting resources, 72 firefighters, supported by three ground teams from the 3rd EMODE (Special Forest Firefighting Unit), volunteers, and 19 fire engines, are now operating at the scene. Four helicopters have also been deployed for aerial firefighting.

Municipal water tankers from the Municipality of Heraklion are assisting firefighting efforts by supplying water and supporting operations.

At the same time, a specialized Heraklion Arson Investigation Unit has been dispatched to determine the cause of the fire.

Earlier, authorities also issued a 112 emergency alert, urging residents to remain on high alert and follow the instructions of Civil Protection and the relevant authorities.

112 emergency message

The alert read:

“Forest fire in the Melidochori area of the Heraklion Regional Unit. Remain on alert and follow the instructions of the authorities.”

The wildfire broke out on a day classified as one of very high fire danger, with all regional units of Crete placed under Category 4 on Greece’s Fire Risk Forecast Map.

According to the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, Crete is under the orange alert level, and all relevant services have been placed on heightened readiness.

Civil Protection is urging the public to avoid any outdoor activity that could accidentally ignite a fire.

Residents are advised to refrain from burning dry grass, branches, or garden waste, using circular saws, welding equipment, or other spark-producing machinery, lighting outdoor barbecues, smoking out beehives, or discarding lit cigarette butts.

Authorities also remind the public that burning agricultural fields is prohibited throughout the wildfire season.

Anyone who spots smoke or a fire is urged to immediately notify the Fire Service by calling 199.

Authorities remain on full alert, while citizens are urged to comply with Civil Protection instructions, as current weather conditions are highly favorable for the rapid spread of wildfires.