The wildfire on Salamina has significantly improved today, with no active fire front. Two people, an elderly couple, were killed, 10 others were injured, and homes and vehicles were extensively damaged. At least 593 people were evacuated by sea.
Authorities are now investigating how quickly the fire spread. The Fire Service operations centre was alerted to the blaze in Peristeria at 2:43 p.m. on Sunday, 16 August.
Within about seven minutes, the fire had spread rapidly, driven by strong winds.
Around 300 firefighters were deployed to the area. Crews continued patrols and dousing operations throughout the night to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
A high wildfire risk is forecast today across 20 areas of Greece, including Attica, Evia, Boeotia, Phocis and Phthiotis.
The focus has now shifted to the cause of the fire, with Fire Service investigators collecting statements and evidence from the area.
Authorities are examining a resident’s account that the fire started on a nearby plot where a large amount of rubbish had accumulated. The claim is being investigated and has not been confirmed as the cause.
All possibilities are being considered, including accidental or deliberate arson. Authorities are also examining two separate fires that broke out on the island within a short period, although there is currently no evidence linking them.
Sources: Kathimerini, News247, To Vima
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