Fire continues at recycling facility in Dedeağaç (Alexandroupolis)
A large fire that broke out on Sunday evening at a recycling facility in the Amfitriti area of Dedeağaç (Alexandroupoli) remains active, raising significant concerns among local residents due to the thick, black, toxic smoke it has released into the atmosphere.
The blaze began around 7:00 PM and quickly produced a dense cloud of smoke visible across the area. Authorities issued an emergency alert via 112, urging residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid unnecessary movement.
As of Monday morning, 35 firefighters with 13 fire engines and a ground crew remain on the scene, while firefighting helicopters assisted efforts on Sunday. Thanks to their quick response, the fire has not spread beyond the facility's perimeter, but officials warn that extinguishing it completely may take several days due to the nature of the burning materials.
Fortunately, the lack of strong winds has helped contain the fire’s spread. Firefighting authorities have indicated that no aerial water drops are expected today.
A municipal bus remains on standby near the area, prepared to evacuate residents—especially those with health conditions—if necessary.
In a statement to public broadcaster ERT, the Deputy Regional Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace said that air quality readings so far remain within acceptable limits. However, more precise data on the environmental impact is expected later today.
"The necessary investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. This is a particularly complex incident, and our teams are working relentlessly," said the Head of Fire Services for the Meriç (Evros) region. "The fire’s expansion outside the facility has been controlled, and at this stage, evacuation of residents is not deemed necessary."
