Limassol: The development of the Limassol wildfire was extremely fierce with alternating winds that led the fire spreading from one community to another, Spokesperson of the Cyprus Fire Service, Andreas Kettis, told CNA.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the strong winds in the area were the worst that could happen, as noted by Kettis, who emphasized that ground forces would be operating overnight. “We will assess the fire from the air and where there are active fronts,” Kettis said. He added that operations would resume with aircraft at the first light of day.
Kettis explained that the fire developed with alternating winds, causing it to spread from one community to another and then back to previous areas. Precautionary evacuations were carried out, and numerous rescues were conducted from communities and houses, particularly those with elderly residents, with the help of the Civil Defence, the Police, and members of the National Guard.
Regarding the cause of the fire, Kettis noted that it was too soon to determine, but it seemed to have originated in the Malia village area. The fire expanded to Omodos, Vasa, Ayia Mavri, Koilani, Vouni, Potamiou, and finally reached Agios Therapontas, affecting houses on the perimeter. Forces are currently stationed in Lofou, where the situation remains difficult.
Kettis also reported that Lofou was evacuated along with camping sites in Lofou, Pera Pedi, Koilani, and the wider area of Platres. He confirmed that children were transferred to a safe location.