Firefighters brought a wildfire under control after it broke out in dry grass and rubbish in Neo Rysio, south of Thessaloniki, on Wednesday afternoon.
The blaze was first detected at around 5:50 pm in an irrigation canal where dry vegetation and garbage had accumulated. Emergency services responded immediately, sending strong ground forces to the location to stop the flames from spreading further into the surrounding area.
A total of 30 firefighters took part in the emergency operation, including specialized personnel from a foot unit of the 2nd Special Forestry Operations Unit (EMODE). Ground crews operated with nine fire engines and received assistance from local volunteers as well as water tankers provided by the local municipality.
Aerial support and drone surveillance
Air support units reinforced ground teams during the operation, with one aircraft and one helicopter conducting targeted water drops over the canal until the fire was contained. The aerial drops provided critical coverage while ground crews worked along the canal edges to suppress active flames.
Commanders monitored the progress of the operation in real time through the National Operational Centre for Operations and Crisis Management (ESKEDIK). The centre used an unmanned aerial vehicle equipped with thermal and optical cameras, giving officials continuous live video feed of the emergency zone.
High fire risk and investigation
The fire broke out on a day when Thessaloniki was classified under Category 3 on the national fire risk prediction map, indicating high risk. Category 3 warnings alert fire services and municipal authorities across Greece to maintain heightened readiness due to dry vegetation and weather conditions that favour rapid fire spread.
Following the containment of the blaze, the Arson Crime Investigation Squad of Thessaloniki was called to the scene. Investigators are examining the area to determine the exact origin of the fire and the circumstances under which it started.
