Wildfire devastates Chios for third day, reigniting fears of 2012 disaster
A major wildfire has been raging for three consecutive days on the Greek island of Chios, threatening its iconic mastic-producing villages and reviving memories of the catastrophic 2012 fires that devastated large parts of the island.
The blaze, which began in the Agios Georgios Sykousis area, has now spread toward southern Chios, where the island's valuable mastic groves—a cornerstone of its local economy and cultural identity—are at risk. Strong northerly winds, measuring up to 8 Beaufort, have fueled the flames and complicated firefighting efforts.
Critical Threat to Mastic Villages
Local officials and residents are on high alert. According to Giorgos Toumbos, president of the Chios Mastic Growers Association, the fire now threatens Vessa and Lithi, both part of the island’s historic mastic-producing region.
“This is something we’ve been through before,” Toumbos said, recalling the 2012 fire. “It is critical that firefighters stop the fire before nightfall, because conditions worsen drastically after dark.”
Mass Evacuations & Emergency Measures
As of Tuesday, over 25 settlements had received 112 emergency evacuation alerts, including Elata, Armolia, Agios Georgios Sykousis, and Leptopoda. Although no confirmed damage to homes has been reported, Chios Mayor Giannis Malafis warned that isolated incidents were possible.
The island was officially placed under a state of emergency until July 22, enabling rapid deployment of resources and support.
Firefighting and Investigation
Firefighting forces were intensified Tuesday with the deployment of:
190 firefighters, with an additional 170 on the way
11 specialized forest units, 38+ vehicles
13 helicopters and 4 Canadair aircraft
Support from the Greek Army, providing tankers and machinery
An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, led by the Fire Investigation Directorate (DAEE) and Hellenic Police.
Dangerous Conditions Across the Island
Satellite data from Meteo.gr confirmed that smoke had traveled over 200 km, reaching Kimolos. Dry vegetation and difficult terrain, paired with wind speeds of 6–8 Beaufort, continue to drive the fire.
Officials and locals remain united in their hope to prevent the flames from consuming the remaining mastic groves—a symbol of Chios and a global heritage product.
