Wildfire rages on island of Thasos (photos)

Island declared in state of emergency

Authorities have declared a state of emergency on the island of Thasos in the northern Aegean Sea, as a wildfire that broke out Saturday is still raging. Ten houses have been burnt in the two villages, Mikro and Megalo Kazaviti, while the flames are threatening the village of Theologos. One fire-fighter has been injured. The fire is burning on four fronts, while local eyewitness accounts say the flames are threatening hotel facilities in the north part of the island. 170 firefighters, 73 vehicles, 53 officers in foot units, 15 volunteers and 36 soldiers are battling the flames, but strong winds and thick smoke are impeding their efforts. Sunday morning helicopters have joined in the efforts to quench the flames.  The Monasteries of St. Panteleimonas and Archangel have been evacuated, while many parts of the island are experiencing power failures.

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