Major Wildfire Forces 1,500 Evacuations, Hospitalizations Crete Greece

Significant wildfires are currently impacting multiple regions, with firefighting efforts underway in Slovakia, Canada, and Greece. In Slovakia's Gelnica district, a 500 by 200-meter forest fire prompted a response involving professional and volunteer firefighters supported by a Defense Ministry helicopter, with operations continuing overnight. In Yellowknife, Canada, a small person-caused fire near Tin Can Hill was quickly contained by crews using helicopters and hand tools, posing no threat to homes. Meanwhile, southern Europe, particularly the Greek island of Crete, faces a severe wildfire fueled by gale-force winds amid a heatwave, leading to the evacuation of over 1,500 people and hospitalization of at least four individuals due to respiratory issues. The blaze in Crete threatens homes, tourist accommodations, and critical infrastructure, with emergency services using helicopters, drones, and water bombers to combat the fire, which has prompted road closures and health warnings. This situation is part of a broader pattern of heatwave-related fires and fatalities across southern Europe, including Spain, France, and Italy.