Wildfires Rage Across Greek Chios Island Prompting Mass Evacuations

A massive wildfire has erupted on Greece's Chios Island near the Pangia Voitheia Monastery, forcing evacuations of residents and tourists as strong winds spread the flames across multiple areas. Over 100 firefighters, supported by helicopters, water tankers, and heavy machinery, are battling the blaze, while authorities have issued numerous evacuation alerts for towns such as Karyes and Vrontados. Officials suspect arson as the cause and have dispatched a specialist task force to work with police in investigating the fires. The fires have severely disrupted daily life, leading to power cuts and destruction of vital agricultural areas, including those producing mastiha resin. This wildfire follows other recent fires in Greece and underscores the increasing frequency and severity of blazes attributed to climate change. Meanwhile, holidaymakers have been evacuated and the Foreign Office advises caution but maintains that travel to Greece remains safe overall.