There are currently three active fronts in Rhodes as stated by the press representative of the Fire Department, Giannis Artopioos, speaking to SKAI and he emphasized that “we are facing extreme weather conditions in the area”.

He specifically said that the three fronts are the ones that are currently troubling firefighters:

-Northeast of the artificial dam of Lake Lagoura which has created a small active front
-500 meters from Laerma to Lardo, a new front joining the old one
– And the most active is in the Asklepiion of Rhodes

Powers up

At the same time, he pointed out that two C-130 aircraft are taking off this evening carrying forest commandos along with two water vehicles and 8 teams of the DIAS. Tomorrow, as he said, another 10 water vehicles will start which will reach the island by ferry.

Also, arson crime squads are being stepped up and a drone team is arriving.

According to Mr. Artopifios, residents in the areas of Laerma, Lardos, Asklipieio and also in the active front northeast of the artificial dam of Lake Lagoura should be alert in case a message is sent to them from 112.

The forces at work

At the moment in Rhodes, 205 firefighters are operating with 13 groups of walking departments, 39 vehicles, the Slovak firefighters are also participating with 31 personnel and 5 vehicles.

As Mr. Artophios pointed out, 10% of Rhodes’ accommodations have been evacuated and more than 2,000 tourists have moved by sea.

“The goal of the ground forces is the safety of our fellow citizens and secondly the safeguarding of their properties to the maximum extent possible,” said the Fire Department press officer.

Setica with the damages caused by the fires he said that “the reports we have from Kiotari are that there is material damage in the surrounding area mainly of these hotels and mainly in the outdoor area and in the indoor area in some pergolas, in umbrellas. No infrastructure has been reported so far that has been completely destroyed.”

Photo from skyrodos.gr