Major wildfire continues to spread on Paros island

A significant wildfire broke out on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in the Kampi area of Paros, originating near the local sanitary landfill. The fire, which initially involved waste and low-lying vegetation, quickly escalated due to strong winds, prompting an emergency response that eventually grew to include 12 aerial assets, consisting of three helicopters and nine aircraft. Ground forces were bolstered by the arrival of firefighters from Naxos, Syros, and the 1st Special Disaster Management Unit (EMODE).

As the situation deteriorated into early Wednesday morning, the flames spread through the areas of Agkairia, Aneratza, Kamari, and Tripiti. Emergency authorities issued multiple evacuation orders via the 112 system, instructing residents in at least five settlements to evacuate toward Aliki beach for safety. Paros Mayor Konstantinos Bizas confirmed that all local resources, including water tankers and construction equipment, were deployed to assist the firefighting efforts alongside the national fire brigade. Deputy Chief of the Fire Service has been dispatched to the island to oversee operations.

While the firefighting teams continue to battle the blaze, the situation remains critical. Officials report that fire containment is being hindered by intensifying winds that are driving the fire toward residential sectors, necessitating ongoing vigilance and further operational adjustments.