High wildfire risk alert issued in Rhodope as access restrictions remain
As a precaution against potential forest fires, authorities have temporarily prohibited the entry, presence and movement of people and vehicles in several designated forested and recreational areas, with limited exceptions under Greek legislation.
According to the Fire Risk Prediction Map published by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection under Greece’s Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Rhodope is among the areas facing a high risk of wildfire.
The restrictions cover several forest and recreational areas across the regional unit, including:
- Nymfaia Forest near Gümülcine
- Oak coastal woodland within the boundaries of Gümülcine Municipality
- Profitis Ilias recreational area in the Municipality of Yassıköy
- Şapçı urban woodland in the Municipality of Maronia-Sapes
- Imaret woodland
- Imaret Kapsala coastal forest
- Sazlıca (Krioneri) coastal forest
The Civil Protection Directorate of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region has urged residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution and avoid activities that could trigger fires.
Authorities specifically warned against burning dry grass and branches, using machinery that could produce sparks, lighting barbecues in open areas, producing smoke during beekeeping activities and discarding cigarette butts outdoors.
The authorities also reminded residents that the burning of crop residues, including stubble, remains prohibited throughout the wildfire season.
Anyone who spots a fire is urged to immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199 and report the incident without delay.
