Wildfire at Kalo Chorio firing range brought under control

A forest fire that broke out at 12:40 on July 27, 2026, within the Kalo Chorio firing range in the Larnaca district was successfully brought under control after a six-hour operation. The fire was reportedly triggered by National Guard live-fire training exercises. It spread from the firing range toward the areas of Agia Anna, Pseudas, and Mosfiloti, leading to the temporary closure of the Kalo Chorio-Pseudas road and the evacuation of residents from Agia Anna and Mosfiloti, including 21 people in the latter who required relocation.

The firefighting effort involved a massive mobilization under the 'Ikaros II' National Plan, coordinated by the Zinonas Centre. Resources included six aircraft, five helicopters, 70 forestry department personnel with 11 vehicles, 32 fire service members, and multiple bulldozers and water tankers from various district authorities. While no mass casualties were reported, one volunteer firefighter was hospitalized after suffering a fall. Authorities, including the Department of Forests, confirmed that while the blaze was challenging due to strong winds, it was contained by 18:30. Residents noted a lack of mobile phone alerts, relying instead on church bells for warning.

Following the successful containment, crews have shifted their focus to securing the fire perimeters and monitoring for potential flare-ups. The affected areas remain under close observation to ensure safety as the emergency response winds down.