Two firefighters killed battling wildfire on Greece's Crete island
Two firefighters were killed while battling a wildfire on the Greek island of Crete on Wednesday after becoming trapped by advancing flames, authorities said.
According to public broadcaster ERT, the firefighters were found dead inside their vehicle in the Nea Krya Vrysi area of Rethymno.
One of the victims was a seasonal firefighter, while the other had served for five years at the Agia Fotini fire station.
The Greek Fire Department described the incident as "an extremely difficult day" for the service, extending condolences to the victims' families and colleagues.
Evacuations ordered as fire spreads
The wildfire broke out around midday and spread rapidly as strong winds, reaching force seven on the Beaufort scale, hampered firefighting efforts.
Authorities issued a series of emergency alerts, ordering the evacuation of the settlements of Krya Vrysi, Saktouria and Melampes. Residents in the Triopetra area were also instructed to evacuate via the coastal road toward Kerame.
Large firefighting operation underway
A major firefighting operation was launched to contain the blaze, with 125 firefighters, including six specialized forest firefighting teams, deployed to the area.
The response also included 27 fire engines, four firefighting aircraft and four helicopters, supported by municipal water tankers and heavy machinery.
Authorities said firefighting resources were significantly reinforced as crews continued efforts to contain the blaze amid strong winds.
Investigation launched
The Rethymno Fire Service's arson investigation unit has opened an inquiry into the cause of the wildfire.
