Chaos on Corfu as Wildfires Spark Major Sea Evacuations
Wildfires are wreaking havoc on the stunning Greek island of Corfu, forcing one of the largest ever evacuations in Greek history. Tourists and residents are fleeing resorts and coastal villages as flames rage on, with emergency crews scrambling to get people to safety.
Rescue Mission at Nissaki Beach
On Corfu’s northwest coast, 59 people were plucked from danger at Nissaki beach. Greek Coast Guard vessels teamed up with nine private boats in a high-stakes sea evacuation, pulling those trapped by the fires to safety amid the advancing inferno.
Rhodes Faces Unprecedented Evacuation
Meanwhile, Rhodes is battling its own devastating blaze. Some 19,000 people have been rescued – among the biggest evacuations Greece has ever seen. Tourists and locals sought refuge in schools and shelters, while others resorted to staying outdoors on beaches or even poolside loungers over the weekend. Private boats ferried many from threatened shorelines as emergency warnings were issued for hotspots including Santa, Megoula, Porta, and other nearby areas.
Flights Cancelled, Tourists Rushed Home
- TUI, Jet2, Correndon and other travel giants have axed flights to Rhodes.
- EasyJet is running two special repatriation flights on Monday, adding 421 seats to their usual nine weekly UK-Rhodes services.
- Another rescue flight is set for Tuesday as they monitor the wildfire crisis closely.
The wildfire aftermath is grim: scorched forests, burnt-out cars, and dead wildlife litter the once-beautiful landscapes. With no rain in sight and soaring temperatures, firefighters face an uphill battle to stop the flames from spreading further.
Despite the chaos, Corfu is holding together thanks to the resilience shown by locals and tourists alike. Authorities are urging everyone to stay alert and follow emergency instructions. The Greek Foreign Office has dispatched a Rapid Deployment Team to Rhodes to help travellers who lost their documents and to support evacuation efforts.
These infernos are a harsh warning of nature’s fury. Visitors to Greece are urged to stay updated and heed safety advice as authorities race to bring the fires under control.
