Hundreds escape Greek wildfire by sea as blazes continue across Europe
Hundreds of people, mainly tourists, are being evacuated by sea from Agios Vasileios in central Greece after a fast-moving wildfire cut off the coastal town. The incident highlights the scale of a wider wildfire emergency across southern Europe, where heatwaves, dry vegetation and strong winds have created dangerous conditions.
More than 200 people have already left Agios Vasileios and another 100 were due to be taken away by boat, while firefighters also tackle fires near Xironomi and on several Greek islands. On Crete, fires have burned thousands of hectares and temporarily displaced 8,000 people; Spain has seen over 200,000 hectares burn this year, while a Portuguese fire near Valpaços has destroyed 15,000 hectares and injured five people.
In short
- Hundreds evacuated by sea from a Greek coastal wildfire.
- Blazes continue across Greece, Spain, Portugal and Turkey.
- Heatwaves and dry vegetation are worsening fire risks.
Explained simply
Wildfires can spread quickly when hot, dry weather dries out grass and woodland, and strong winds carry flames and embers into new areas. Southern Europe is particularly exposed during heatwaves, when vegetation can become highly flammable and fires may threaten homes, roads and holiday areas.
Firefighters work to contain the blazes, while local authorities organise evacuations and transport people away from danger. In coastal areas, boats can provide an escape route when roads are blocked or unsafe; tourists may need help because they are unfamiliar with the area.
Fires in Greece, Spain and Portugal show how the risk can affect several countries at once. Large burns can displace residents and visitors, damage land and property, and put pressure on emergency services.