Forest fire in Almyropotamos, Evia triggers emergency evacuations

On Saturday, June 20, 2026, a large forest fire broke out in the Almyropotamos region of Evia. Emergency authorities issued two 112 alerts: the first at 17:05 for emergency readiness, and the second at 17:58 ordering residents of Mesochoria and Raptaioi to evacuate toward Styra. Official reports from the Fire Service indicate that 120 firefighters, 35 vehicles, 5 specialized hiking teams, 8 aircraft, and 7 helicopters are engaged in the operation. Other sources provided varying initial figures of 70 firefighters and 20 vehicles. Strong northerly winds reaching 5 to 7 Beaufort are complicating firefighting efforts by causing spotting and creating new fire fronts. Authorities also noted that high-voltage power lines and wind turbines in the area are hindering the precision of aerial water drops. The Evia investigative department has arrived at the site to determine the cause of the fire.