Cyprus is experiencing one of its most severe ecological and humanitarian catastrophes, as a massive fire consumed over 100 square kilometers of land north of Limassol. The tragedy, which occurred during an extreme temperature regime, has put the country to a serious test.
Official data confirms two deaths, where people died in a burned car, blocked by rapidly spreading flames. Additionally, ten people have been injured, with two of them in critical condition.
Meteorological conditions further complicate rescue operations - temperatures reach an impressive 44 degrees, which represents the highest measured value since the beginning of the year. Strong variable winds create exceptional challenges for firefighting teams.
Cypriot authorities have taken immediate actions, submitting an official request for support to the European Union. At the moment, at least 14 firefighting planes are battling the expanding fire front, with additional planes from Spain and technical assistance from Jordan expected to arrive.
An additional risk factor is the prolonged drought, which has reduced water reserves to a critically low level. The largest water reservoir "Kouris" is filled only 15.5% of its capacity, which further complicates fire containment.
Hundreds of local residents have been evacuated from their homes, and this morning the sky over Limassol was colored in a sinister red, symbolizing the scale of the unfolding ecological disaster.
At present, the exact causes of the fire have not yet been established, and investigation is pending. Experts emphasize that climate change and extreme weather conditions are a serious challenge to national security.