Chalcis, Greece fire prompts large firefighting response
A wildfire broke out around midday on 5 July 2026 in the Drosia area of Chalcis, Greece, near the Agios Mina locality (position known as Bournouda). The blaze spread across low‑vegetation terrain but, according to authorities, did not threaten residential buildings or critical infrastructure.
The emergency response involved about 40 firefighters, two foot‑patrol squads, nine fire trucks and additional water‑carrying machines from the regional authority. Aerial support included four fixed‑wing aircraft and two helicopters conducting water drops. The national emergency service (ESKEDEK) monitored the situation in real time with drones equipped with optical and thermal cameras. At 13:51 UTC, the 112 emergency number sent an alert to residents in the Bournouda area, urging them to stay on standby and follow official instructions. An investigative unit for arson crimes has been dispatched to determine the fire’s cause.
No injuries or damage to homes were reported, and authorities continue to contain the fire while assessing its origin.