Wildfire brought under control near Pissouri in Limassol district

On August 16, 2026, a significant wildfire broke out near the Limassol–Paphos motorway, specifically near the Pissouri exit. The blaze, which began shortly before 3:00 p.m., burned approximately four hectares of land, destroying dry grass, wild vegetation, trees, and piles of waste. The incident posed a threat to nearby individual homes, though firefighting forces successfully protected all residential structures.

A large-scale firefighting operation was launched involving the Fire Service, Forestry Department, British Bases, Civil Defence, Game Fund, and several volunteer groups including Atlas-Dias, Kitas Weather, and SupportCY. Aerial firefighting assets were deployed to conduct water drops, while ground crews managed the perimeter. The highway was temporarily closed by police to facilitate emergency operations before being reopened as the situation stabilized. The fire was officially declared under control by 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Authorities remain on site to monitor for potential hotspots. While the official investigation is ongoing, a Fire Service spokesperson noted that a discarded cigarette is being considered a likely cause. This incident occurred amidst a busy weekend for emergency services, which responded to 39 fires across the region, including a separate suspected arson at an abandoned house in the Agia Zoni area of Limassol.