Series of wildfires break out across Cyprus as authorities declare high alert

Cyprus faced multiple wildfire incidents between July 28 and July 29, 2026, prompting urgent mobilization of the Forestry Department and Fire Service across several districts. Following a large blaze in Agia Anna on July 28, fresh fires erupted on July 29 in the Paphos district, specifically in the Choletria community and later in the Prodromi area of Polis Chrysochous.

The Choletria fire, which began around 1:00 PM, burned approximately 2.5 hectares of land, vegetation, and trees. Emergency crews successfully protected two nearby residences from the flames. Shortly after, at 3:54 PM, a separate fire in the Alonia area of Prodromi destroyed five decares of brush before being contained by 4:10 PM. Additional minor incidents were reported in the occupied areas at Dikomo and near the illegal Tymvou airport, where 22 decares of land were damaged.

In response to the escalating danger and ongoing dry conditions, the Forestry Department has declared a 'red alert' for July 30, 2026, warning that starting a fire constitutes a serious crime. Authorities are currently investigating the causes of these outbreaks while maintaining high vigilance to prevent further damage. The Cyprus Army Officers Association also called for a thorough investigation into a separate incident in Kalo Chorio, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols during military exercises.