It seems like almost every day, some part of the world is going through a major natural disaster. From droughts in France to extreme flooding in India, every other nation has been reeling under chaos. And now, Greece is experiencing extreme wildfires that have grappled the citizens and forced the country into its largest-ever evacuation, yet.
Greece Is Carrying Out Its Largest Ever Evacuation Due To Wildfires
I can’t even relax on my holidays! I am currently in #Barbati on #Corfu near a fire. People are saying it’s arson as there is no wind. I have seen people with suitcases evacuating, we r staying put as the fire is not coming towards us.#wildfires #Greece #κερκυρα #μπαρμπατι #φωτια pic.twitter.com/PG22yZbN4I
— Sylvia Tranganida #wearamask 😷 (@sylviatra) July 23, 2023
More than a thousand tourists and residents are fleeing wildfires in Greece, on the Greek island of Rhodes. They have been taking refuge in schools and shelters on July 23, with many evacuated on private boats. The flames have threatened resorts and coastal villages, forcing many into seeking shelter, reported Reuters.
Many were also reported being forced to find their own transport to reach safety or even walk on foot to escape the extreme heat. Reuters also reported that many tourists spent the night on beaches and streets during what is being described as Greece’s largest evacuation yet.
Reportedly, close to 19,000 have been moved from their homes and hotels as the wildfire gained speed since its beginning on July 19. The flames were reported to be tearing through forests and eventually reaching the coastal resorts on the island’s south-eastern coast.
Tour operators TUI, Correndon and Jet2, cancelled flights leaving for Rhodes to ensure public safety at its best, reported Reuters. Rhodes is a popular vacation destination which lies southeast of mainland Greece and is famous for its beaches and historic sites.
Also Read: As Heatwaves Scorch Europe, Should You Rethink Travelling To Italy, Spain & France?
What Is Currently Happening In The Vacation Destination?
💢Pray for Greece, Evacuations amid wildfires in Rhodes, Greece. #Greece #wildfire pic.twitter.com/dW0aV5cKvt
— faruk (@Farukb44) July 23, 2023
The report also said that the Greek transport ministry said TUI and Jet2, which take care of the tourism to Rhodes, planned 14 scheduled flights from Rhodes airport. They have transferred about 2,700 passengers until 3:00 am local time.
While wildfires are common, a scale of this level is caused due to extreme change. Most of Europe has been extremely affected by this and is facing its adverse effects such as heatwaves and droughts.
Many parts of Greece experienced temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius which is 104 degrees Fahrenheit, during the past week, stated reports. Emergency services also had to deal with fires in several locations such as Evia, east of Athens; Aigio, southwest of Athens; and Corfu. The authorities ordered evacuations of some small settlements in these areas.
Climate change is only going to get worse and display its full wrath if not taken into consideration. Appropriate measures to restore nature’s well-being needs to be on everyone’s priority list. If not, more such wildfires, droughts, floods and storms are awaiting our future.
Also Read: Europe Is Heating Up With Temperatures Rising Above 40°C As Cerberus Heatwave Takes Over
Do you think climate change is reversible or it is only going to get worse? Let us know in the comments.
Cover image courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)