Fire Breaks Out in Cyprus Forest, Prompting Investigation

A large fire broke out on Wednesday in the Limassol State Forest in Cyprus, burning approximately one square kilometer of wild vegetation and pine trees. The blaze, which started between the villages of Vasas Kellakiou and Asgata, is believed to have been ignited by the detonation of explosives by technicians from the Mines Service within a quarry in the community of Monagrouli.

Strong ground firefighting forces, including over 150 members of the Fire Service, forestry department, civil defense, and Game Fund, battled the flames. Aerial assets and helicopters, including an aircraft from the forestry department and a helicopter from the British bases and police, were called in for reinforcements. Despite their efforts, powerful winds impeded the firefighting operations.

Some residents of Vasas Kellakiou village were evacuated earlier in the afternoon as a precautionary measure. The fire was brought under control, but firefighters remained in the area overnight to prevent any rekindling.

Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou rushed to the scene and ordered an official investigation into the causes of the fire. The decision to destroy explosives at the quarry, disregarding the high temperatures, humidity, and winds, and without taking necessary safety precautions, is being criticized as the cause of the disaster.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the importance of proper safety measures and risk assessment when conducting potentially hazardous activities, especially during periods of high fire risk. It also underscores the need for swift and coordinated emergency response to minimize the impact of such disasters on the environment and local communities.

Minister Panayiotou reminded residents to be cautious and avoid any actions that may cause a fire, stating, "The government plans to purchase ten firefighting planes over a five-year period." A complete assessment of the affected area will be conducted on Thursday to determine the full extent of the damage.

Key Takeaways

• Large fire in Limassol State Forest, Cyprus, burned 1 sq km of vegetation.
• Fire believed caused by detonation of explosives at nearby quarry by Mines Service.
• Over 150 firefighters battled blaze, but strong winds impeded efforts.
• Some residents evacuated, fire brought under control but monitored overnight.
• Minister ordered investigation, plans to purchase 10 firefighting planes over 5 years.