Fire caused by ammunition disposal at Kalo Chorio range triggers evacuations in Larnaca

A large wildfire erupted on July 27, 2026, at the Kalo Chorio military firing range in the Larnaca district after the 70th Engineer Battalion proceeded with the destruction of ammunition, specifically RPG rounds. The operation took place despite intense heatwave conditions of 40 degrees Celsius and a standing prohibition on heavy weapons explosions during the summer. The fire spread rapidly beyond the firing range, forcing the evacuation of the nearby villages of Agia Anna and Psevdas, and requiring a major mobilization of the Fire Service, Forest Department, and police.

Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas expressed strong dissatisfaction, labeling the battalion's actions unprofessional and ordering an investigation to assign responsibility. While no human fatalities or major property destruction were recorded, one volunteer firefighter suffered a broken leg during the operations. Emergency responses faced challenges due to ongoing explosions at the range and reported delays or failures in the CY-Alert system. Although the fire is currently under control and no active fronts remain, authorities continue to monitor the area for potential flare-ups.