A massive wildfire sweeping through Cyprus’ mountainous regions has left at least two people dead, destroyed homes, and forced the evacuation of multiple villages, marking one of the most destructive blazes the island has faced in decades.
The fire ignited on Wednesday, July 23, in the rugged terrain north of Limassol, a region known for its vineyards and dense pine forests. Fed by scorching temperatures surpassing 43 °C (109 °F) and powerful shifting winds, the blaze quickly spiraled out of control, consuming more than 100 square kilometers (approximately 38 square miles) of land.
Tragic Loss of Life and Destruction
Authorities confirmed that two individuals were found dead in a burned-out vehicle along the Monagri Alassa road, apparently trapped while attempting to flee the flames. At least 10 others have been injured, with two in critical condition due to severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Homes and vehicles in hillside communities such as Souni-Zanakia and Lofou were reduced to ashes as the fire tore through residential areas with alarming speed. Dramatic images show entire neighborhoods engulfed in flames, while smoke plumes towered over the Troodos Mountains.
Mass Evacuations and Emergency Response
Evacuation orders were swiftly issued for 14 villages, and hundreds of residents, including children from a local campsite, were forced to flee to safety. Many sought refuge in community shelters or were relocated by emergency personnel under urgent conditions.
Over 250 firefighters, supported by 75 fire trucks and more than a dozen aircraft, including helicopters and fixed-wing planes, have been deployed. International reinforcements have arrived or are en route from Spain, Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Lebanon, with a British Royal Air Force Chinook helicopter on standby.
The government has activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, appealing for additional support as crews battle to contain the blaze amid treacherous weather.
Extreme Heat, Drought Compound the Crisis
The inferno comes during a brutal summer heatwave, with temperatures forecast to reach 44 °C (111 °F) the hottest day of the year so far. Cyprus’ already strained water resources are exacerbating the crisis: the island’s largest reservoir, Kouris, is down to just 15.5% capacity due to prolonged drought, further hampering firefighting efforts.
Investigation Underway
While no official cause has been confirmed, authorities say arson has not been ruled out, and an investigation is underway. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides has pledged a full probe into the origins of the blaze and promised assistance to affected communities.
“This is a national tragedy,” said Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou. “We are doing everything in our power to save lives and protect homes.”
Looking Ahead
As of Thursday night, containment remained partial, with fire lines still advancing in some areas. Officials warn that the situation remains volatile, with dry vegetation and erratic winds posing ongoing threats.
