Large wildfire ravages Siviri and Fourka in Halkidiki

A catastrophic wildfire broke out on August 13, 2026, around 14:00 near the settlement of Siviri in the Kassandra peninsula of Halkidiki. Driven by high winds, the blaze spread through dense pine forests and reached residential areas, causing significant damage to homes and local infrastructure, including a sewage treatment plant. Authorities issued multiple 112 emergency alerts, ordering the evacuation of Siviri and the coastal settlement of Fourka.

Over 140 firefighters, supported by 51 vehicles and several specialized hiking teams, are battling the flames. Aerial support includes nine aircraft and seven helicopters. A major rescue operation was launched at the beaches of Siviri and Fourka, where over 300 residents and tourists were evacuated by private and state-operated boats due to the encroaching fire. Two firefighters were injured during the operation, with one requiring hospital care for a lower limb injury after a fall. The fire remains uncontrolled as emergency services continue to reinforce their presence from across Greece.