Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations on Chios Island

Wildfires on the Greek island of Chios have forced evacuations across up to twenty areas, including villages and a migrant reception center, as nearly 200 firefighters, supported by helicopters and aircraft, battle the blaze for a second day. Strong winds and extreme heat have accelerated the fire’s spread, threatening the island’s unique mastic tree plantations and raising fears of a repeat of the 2012 disaster that devastated mastic production. While authorities say tourists are not currently at risk, several UK tourists have been among those impacted, and emergency alerts have disrupted peak summer travel. The fires, suspected to be arson after erupting almost simultaneously in multiple locations, have caused significant damage to farmland, homes, and infrastructure. Local officials have appealed for donations to support responders and displaced residents. The crisis has intensified concerns about the growing severity of wildfires in Greece due to climate change and prolonged dry weather.