Kettis: Shifting Winds Directed Cyprus Wildfire

The wildfire's progression was intense, with shifting winds constantly changing its direction, stated Andreas Kettis, Press Officer of the Cyprus Fire Service.

Ground forces will be operating throughout the night. "We will assess the fire from the air and identify any active fronts. Early in the morning, with the first light of day, we will resume operations with aerial means," Kettis said.

Numerous preventative evacuations and rescues were carried out from communities and homes, mainly involving elderly individuals. The fire started in the Malia area and spread to the Omodos, Vasa, Agia Mavri, Koilani, Vasa, Vouni, Potamiou triangle, reaching as far as Agios Therapontas and affecting residences on the perimeter.

Lofou was evacuated, as well as camping areas in the wider region (Pera Pedi, Koilani, Platres). The children were transferred to a safe place, Kettis concluded.