A fast-moving wildfire erupted near the outskirts of Thessaloniki on Saturday night, prompting emergency evacuations and a major firefighting response as strong winds fueled the blaze and complicated containment efforts.

According to Greek fire authorities, the fire broke out at around 8:30 p.m. in a ravine within a mountainous area west of Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. Driven by strong winds, the flames spread rapidly from higher ground into nearby plains, consuming large areas of dry vegetation and brushland.

Authorities ordered the evacuation of several settlements, including Anthoupoli, Filothei, and Galini, after emergency alerts were sent to residents via mobile phones. Local officials said precautionary measures were taken to protect communities threatened by the advancing fire.

A facility housing 157 people with special needs was also evacuated. Approximately 120 residents who were able to move independently were transferred to a local sports hall, while others requiring additional care were relocated to a psychiatric hospital and other medical facilities.

Although no residential homes were reported destroyed, several businesses were engulfed by flames as the fire swept through industrial and commercial areas. Residents across Thessaloniki witnessed large flames on the horizon, while explosions were heard as combustible materials inside affected businesses ignited.

A thick blanket of smoke spread across several western suburbs and parts of the city, reducing visibility and raising concerns about air quality.

More than 115 firefighters, supported by 38 fire engines and numerous volunteers, were deployed to combat the blaze. Firefighting aircraft participated in the response during daylight hours but were unable to continue operations overnight, in line with standard safety procedures.

Fire officials said there was no immediate indication that the wildfire was moving directly toward Thessaloniki’s urban center. However, emergency crews remained on high alert as strong local winds continued to drive the flames and create challenging conditions for containment efforts.

In a separate development, authorities announced the arrest of a 76-year-old man on suspicion of causing the fire. According to the Fire Service, the suspect appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. An investigation into the cause of the blaze remains ongoing.

The Thessaloniki wildfire comes amid a growing wildfire season in Greece. Earlier this week, a major fire in central Greece claimed the lives of a father and his 12-year-old son and forced the evacuation of several communities.

Additional wildfires were also reported on Saturday in northern Greece, including on the popular tourist destination of the Halkidiki Peninsula and near the city of Kilkis, underscoring the heightened fire risk facing the country.

Greece regularly experiences destructive wildfires during its long, hot, and dry summers, with strong seasonal winds often accelerating the spread of flames. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation instructions as firefighting operations continue. (ILKHA)