Efforts to put out fire in Distomo area continue through high-velocity winds

The two fronts of a forest fire near Distomo, Central Greece, were contained on Friday by firefighters, who are battling strong winds.

Heavy machinery and volunteers aided in the fire that broke out earlier on Friday that threatened an olive grove and nearby residential areas in the historic town and then formed two fronts.

Deputy Regional Director Fani Papathoma said that efforts to fully control the fire are hampered by dense brush and strong winds, but noted communities were not in danger and “we could control the progress of the fire without having to evacuate areas.” Firefighters hoped to prevent rekindling also, and to have placed the fire under full control by nightfall, she added.

Efforts involve a total of 74 firefighters, 2 ground teams, 23 fire trucks, 4 airplanes, 5 helicopters, and volunteers, as well as local heavy machinery and water trucks.

The Fire Brigade chief has ordered investigating teams to search for the fire’s causes.

Source: amna.gr