<p>Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting. Governments find it really difficult to control and they seek all the help they need.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The firefighters in California are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help spot wildfires. The system will stream video from over 1,000 strategically positioned cameras across the state into a machine that will warn first responders when it is time to mobilise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to the camera network, and in response to increasingly frequent and severe climate-driven disasters, ALERTCalifornia is prioritising novel data collection and research.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-social-media-awash-with-videos-of-deadly-maui-island-fire-in-hawaii-624529">Social media awash with videos of deadly Maui island fire in Hawaii</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The engineers at the University of California San Diego developed ALERTCalifornia by using AI from DigitalPath, a company based in Chico, California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The website noted that ALERTCalifornia provides "state-of-the-art technology that supports data-driven decisions to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the website, ALERTCalifornia is based at the University of California San Diego. It is a public safety program working to understand wildfires and other natural hazards. It also aims to help the authorities to determine short and long-term impacts on people and the environment to inform management decisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why Maui's deadly wildfires spread so quickly&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, Cal Fire said with people asleep and darkness concealing the smoke, it could have spread into a raging wildfire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, AI notified a fire captain, who dispatched approximately 60 firefighters, including seven engines, two bulldozers, two water tankers, and two hand crews. The fire was extinguished in 45 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cal Fire offered further examples of AI alerting fire captains to fire before a 911 call was placed since the AI programme began on July 10, albeit it did not yet have a thorough report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/virgin-galactics-tourist-astronauts-left-starstruck-after-trip-to-edge-of-space-watch-624619">Virgin Galactic's tourist 'astronauts' left 'starstruck' after trip to edge of space. Watch!</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by Reuters, Suzann Leininger, who is a Cal Fire intelligence specialist in El Cajon, just east of San Diego, said: "Its 100% applicable throughout anywhere in the world, especially now that we're experiencing a lot larger and more frequent fire regimes and with climate change."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a presser released on May 3, Neal Driscoll, director of ALERTCalifornia and geoscientist at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, said: "The program will spawn invaluable research and mitigation plans that will increase the state's resiliency towards the new extreme fire risk."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Data acquired in the highest fire-threat regions will significantly empower firefighters, first responders, legislators, city planners and scientists for years to come," Driscoll had added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting.

Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting. Governments find it really difficult to control and they seek all the help they need. The firefighters in California are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help spot wildfires. The system will stream video from over 1,000 strategically positioned cameras across the state into a machine that will warn first responders when it is time to mobilise. In addition to the camera network, and in response to increasingly frequent and severe climate-driven disasters, ALERTCalifornia is prioritising novel data collection and research. Also read: Social media awash with videos of deadly Maui island fire in Hawaii The engineers at the University of California San Diego developed ALERTCalifornia by using AI from DigitalPath, a company based in Chico, California. The website noted that ALERTCalifornia provides "state-of-the-art technology that supports data-driven decisions to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters". As per the website, ALERTCalifornia is based at the University of California San Diego. It is a public safety program working to understand wildfires and other natural hazards. It also aims to help the authorities to determine short and long-term impacts on people and the environment to inform management decisions. Watch: Why Maui's deadly wildfires spread so quickly × As reported by the news agency Reuters, Cal Fire said with people asleep and darkness concealing the smoke, it could have spread into a raging wildfire. However, AI notified a fire captain, who dispatched approximately 60 firefighters, including seven engines, two bulldozers, two water tankers, and two hand crews. The fire was extinguished in 45 minutes. Cal Fire offered further examples of AI alerting fire captains to fire before a 911 call was placed since the AI programme began on July 10, albeit it did not yet have a thorough report. Also read: Virgin Galactic's tourist 'astronauts' left 'starstruck' after trip to edge of space. Watch! As quoted by Reuters, Suzann Leininger, who is a Cal Fire intelligence specialist in El Cajon, just east of San Diego, said: "Its 100% applicable throughout anywhere in the world, especially now that we're experiencing a lot larger and more frequent fire regimes and with climate change." In a presser released on May 3, Neal Driscoll, director of ALERTCalifornia and geoscientist at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, said: "The program will spawn invaluable research and mitigation plans that will increase the state's resiliency towards the new extreme fire risk." "Data acquired in the highest fire-threat regions will significantly empower firefighters, first responders, legislators, city planners and scientists for years to come," Driscoll had added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

California firefighters using AI to help spot wildfires and take necessary action

<p>As firefighters fight the devastating flames that have nearly engulfed the Hawaiian island of Maui completely, scary videos of wildfires ravaging residential areas are now eliciting reactions online. The videos are being posted by local residents as well as people from other countries.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maui is on fire and 6 deaths are confirmed.<br />
<br />
Heartbreaking. <a href="https://t.co/bQ8bOvJ4tk">pic.twitter.com/bQ8bOvJ4tk</a></p>
— Sophia Kianni (@SophiaKianni) <a href="https://twitter.com/SophiaKianni/status/1689866929513828352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Video of flying over the Hawaiian island of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maui?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maui</a>, where the fire burned the western part of the island. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MauiFires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MauiFires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MauiWildfires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MauiWildfires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hawaii?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hawaii</a> <a href="https://t.co/1c15yHvdfX">pic.twitter.com/1c15yHvdfX</a></p>
— X News Monitor (@xNewsMonitor) <a href="https://twitter.com/xNewsMonitor/status/1689875685878239232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On August 7, a forest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fire</a> broke out on the island of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maui?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maui</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hawaii?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hawaii</a>, USA. Strong winds of up to 97 km/h, caused by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HurricaneDora?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HurricaneDora</a>, passing 800 km from Hawaii, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. A state of emergency has been declared on the island.<br />
▶️Hundreds of homes… <a href="https://t.co/lbtosPCQre">pic.twitter.com/lbtosPCQre</a></p>
— Creative Society Michigan (@MICreativeScty) <a href="https://twitter.com/MICreativeScty/status/1689850036677492736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
Bushfires on the West coast of Maui island were fuelled by high winds from a nearby hurricane. The fire spread rapidly and engulfed the seaside town of Lahaina.</p>

<p>The wildfire spread so&nbsp;rapidly that many were caught off-guard. Some people were trapped in the streets, others jumped into the ocean to escape the advancing flames.</p>

<p>"It really looks like somebody came along and just bombed the whole town. It's completely devastated," said Canadian Brandon Wilson, who had travelled to Hawaii with his wife to celebrate their 25th anniversary, but was at the airport trying to get a flight out. He was quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>"It was really hard to see," he said, teary-eyed. "You feel so bad for people. They lost their homes, their lives, their livelihoods."</p>

<p>The Hawaii fire has come in the wake of other extreme weather events and wildfires in North America in the past few months. Record-breaking wildfires are still burning across Canada, a nation usually associated with its harsh winters.</p>

<p>Temperatures have soared in Europe and parts of Asia. These regions have also witnessed widespread wildfires.</p>

<p>"What we've seen today has been catastrophic... likely the largest natural disaster in Hawaii state history," Governor Josh Green said as quoted by AFP</p>

<p>"In 1960 we had 61 fatalities when a large wave came through Big Island," he said earlier in the day, referring to a tragedy that struck a year after Hawaii became the 50th US state.</p>

<p>"This time, it's very likely that our death totals will significantly exceed that."</p>

<h2><strong>The fatalities</strong></h2>

<p>As per information from Maui County officials, by 9 pm Thursday (0700 GMT Friday), 55 people had been killed and it was feared that the number would increase.</p>

<p>The devastating fire has forced thousands of people to evacuate. Around 1,400 people were waiting at the main airport in Kahului overnight&nbsp;trying to get out.</p>

<p>Maui County has asked visitors to leave "as soon as possible," and organised buses to move evacuees from shelters to the airport.</p>

<p>The island attracts about a third of all the visitors who come to Hawaii to spend their holidays with their families and loved ones.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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As firefighters fight the devastating flames that have nearly engulfed the Hawaiian island of Maui completely, scary videos of wildfires ravaging residential areas are now eliciting reactions online.

As firefighters fight the devastating flames that have nearly engulfed the Hawaiian island of Maui completely, scary videos of wildfires ravaging residential areas are now eliciting reactions online. The videos are being posted by local residents as well as people from other countries. Maui is on fire and 6 deaths are confirmed. Heartbreaking. pic.twitter.com/bQ8bOvJ4tk — Sophia Kianni (@SophiaKianni) August 11, 2023 × Video of flying over the Hawaiian island of #Maui, where the fire burned the western part of the island. #MauiFires #MauiWildfires #Hawaii pic.twitter.com/1c15yHvdfX — X News Monitor (@xNewsMonitor) August 11, 2023 × On August 7, a forest #fire broke out on the island of #Maui, #Hawaii, USA. Strong winds of up to 97 km/h, caused by #HurricaneDora, passing 800 km from Hawaii, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. A state of emergency has been declared on the island. ▶️Hundreds of homes… pic.twitter.com/lbtosPCQre — Creative Society Michigan (@MICreativeScty) August 11, 2023 × Bushfires on the West coast of Maui island were fuelled by high winds from a nearby hurricane. The fire spread rapidly and engulfed the seaside town of Lahaina. The wildfire spread so rapidly that many were caught off-guard. Some people were trapped in the streets, others jumped into the ocean to escape the advancing flames. "It really looks like somebody came along and just bombed the whole town. It's completely devastated," said Canadian Brandon Wilson, who had travelled to Hawaii with his wife to celebrate their 25th anniversary, but was at the airport trying to get a flight out. He was quoted by AFP. "It was really hard to see," he said, teary-eyed. "You feel so bad for people. They lost their homes, their lives, their livelihoods." The Hawaii fire has come in the wake of other extreme weather events and wildfires in North America in the past few months. Record-breaking wildfires are still burning across Canada, a nation usually associated with its harsh winters. Temperatures have soared in Europe and parts of Asia. These regions have also witnessed widespread wildfires. "What we've seen today has been catastrophic... likely the largest natural disaster in Hawaii state history," Governor Josh Green said as quoted by AFP "In 1960 we had 61 fatalities when a large wave came through Big Island," he said earlier in the day, referring to a tragedy that struck a year after Hawaii became the 50th US state. "This time, it's very likely that our death totals will significantly exceed that." The fatalities As per information from Maui County officials, by 9 pm Thursday (0700 GMT Friday), 55 people had been killed and it was feared that the number would increase. The devastating fire has forced thousands of people to evacuate. Around 1,400 people were waiting at the main airport in Kahului overnight trying to get out. Maui County has asked visitors to leave "as soon as possible," and organised buses to move evacuees from shelters to the airport. The island attracts about a third of all the visitors who come to Hawaii to spend their holidays with their families and loved ones. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Social media awash with videos of deadly Maui island fire in Hawaii

Why wildfires in Hawaii could be the state's deadliest disaster. Experts explain - flash drought, invasive grasses, winds, hurricane and climate change the reasons behind these devastating fires.

Explained: Why Maui's deadly wildfires spread so quickly

Wildfires have been raging on the island of Hawaii and at least about 35 people have ended up losing their lives. At the resort city of Lahaina. Maui Island is being destroyed with great clouds engulfing the affected areas. Firefighters continue to battle the blaze.

Hawaii wildfires kill at least 36 people, 11,000 evacuated

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<p>At least 36 people have lost their lives in the wildfires that tore through the Hawaiian island of Maui, after starting on Tuesday (August 8), informed county officials. The wind-fuelled wildfires have forced the authorities to evacuate over 11,000 from the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The western community town of Lahaina is possibly the worst-affected area as the authorities struggle to contain the fire. Officials said 271 structures had been damaged or destroyed while dozens remained missing. According to Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke, "The road to recovery will be long."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As the firefighting efforts continue, 36 total fatalities have been discovered today amid the active Lahaina fire. No other details are available at this time,” the Wednesday night release said.</p>

<p>Such has been the destruction trail that residents are embarking upon harrowing escapes using boats or cars. Some are even diving into the Pacific Ocean as the fast-moving wildfire engulfs their homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-deadly-wildfires-wreak-havoc-on-hawaiis-maui-island-624130" target="_blank"><strong>In pics: Deadly wildfires wreak havoc on Hawaii's Maui island&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Hurricane Dora exacerbates wildfires&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The fire in the region has been fanned by winds from Hurricane Dora passing hundreds of miles to the south.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Major General Kenneth Hara, who is leading the military response to douse the fire, said firefighters have used more than 150,000 gallons of water so far. Helicopters have been deployed but they are facing difficulties as winds with speeds up to 85 mph make their work challenging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Essential services like electricity and cell tower were down as the fires continued to rage, fanned by strong winds from a nearby hurricane in the Pacific Ocean. Over 12,000 people across Hawaii are currently without power, according to PowerOutage.Us.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden ordered all federal assets in Hawaii&nbsp;to be mobilised to fight the extreme conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have ordered all available Federal assets on the Islands to help with response," Biden said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wildfires-in-2023-the-role-of-climate-change-wion-climate-tracker-621335"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Wildfires in 2023 &amp; the role of climate change | WION Climate Tracker</strong></a></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, former president Barack Obama took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to show solidarity with the victims of the wildfire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Michelle and I are thinking of everyone who has lost a loved one, or whose life has been turned upside down,” Obama wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to experts, although the exact cause of the wildfire is not known yet, extreme heat caused by global warming could be one of the potential reasons.</p>

<p>Scientists had&nbsp;declared July as the hottest month ever recorded, with continents of Asia, Europe and North America - all battling the ferocious heat. According to experts, human-induced climate change has greatly exacerbated the global warming effect, leading to sky-high temperatures. Consequently, wildfires such as the one in Maui have become a common occurrence across the planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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At least 36 people have lost their lives in the wildfires that tore through the Hawaiian island of Maui, after starting on Tuesday (August 8), informed county officials.

At least 36 people have lost their lives in the wildfires that tore through the Hawaiian island of Maui, after starting on Tuesday (August 8), informed county officials. The wind-fuelled wildfires have forced the authorities to evacuate over 11,000 from the area. The western community town of Lahaina is possibly the worst-affected area as the authorities struggle to contain the fire. Officials said 271 structures had been damaged or destroyed while dozens remained missing. According to Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke, "The road to recovery will be long." “As the firefighting efforts continue, 36 total fatalities have been discovered today amid the active Lahaina fire. No other details are available at this time,” the Wednesday night release said. Such has been the destruction trail that residents are embarking upon harrowing escapes using boats or cars. Some are even diving into the Pacific Ocean as the fast-moving wildfire engulfs their homes. In pics: Deadly wildfires wreak havoc on Hawaii's Maui island Hurricane Dora exacerbates wildfires The fire in the region has been fanned by winds from Hurricane Dora passing hundreds of miles to the south. Major General Kenneth Hara, who is leading the military response to douse the fire, said firefighters have used more than 150,000 gallons of water so far. Helicopters have been deployed but they are facing difficulties as winds with speeds up to 85 mph make their work challenging. Essential services like electricity and cell tower were down as the fires continued to rage, fanned by strong winds from a nearby hurricane in the Pacific Ocean. Over 12,000 people across Hawaii are currently without power, according to PowerOutage.Us. US President Joe Biden ordered all federal assets in Hawaii to be mobilised to fight the extreme conditions. "I have ordered all available Federal assets on the Islands to help with response," Biden said in a statement. Watch | Wildfires in 2023 & the role of climate change | WION Climate Tracker × Meanwhile, former president Barack Obama took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to show solidarity with the victims of the wildfire. “Michelle and I are thinking of everyone who has lost a loved one, or whose life has been turned upside down,” Obama wrote on X. According to experts, although the exact cause of the wildfire is not known yet, extreme heat caused by global warming could be one of the potential reasons. Scientists had declared July as the hottest month ever recorded, with continents of Asia, Europe and North America - all battling the ferocious heat. According to experts, human-induced climate change has greatly exacerbated the global warming effect, leading to sky-high temperatures. Consequently, wildfires such as the one in Maui have become a common occurrence across the planet. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Maui: At least 36 killed in devastating wildfires on Hawaiian island

Ire on Hawaii's Maui island kill at least six. Mayor says over two-thousand people were rescued and moved to safer places.

Hawaii Wildfires: Six deaths confirmed as blazes engulf Maui

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Canadian wildfire emissions double previous record

As extreme weather becomes more frequent and intense, scientists warn climate change is now contributing to becoming the worst-ever wildfire season.

Wildfires in 2023 & the role of climate change | WION Climate Tracker

An out-of-control fire burning in the north Washington state has now exploded in size. The fire has crossed the Canadian border triggering evacuations across several cities.

Eagle bluff fire burns thousands of acres across border

In recent weeks Greece experienced 667 fires and according to the country's senior climate crisis official, most of them were started by people.

Climate change to cost Greece over $700 billion: Report

<p>Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight.</p>

<p>The blazing fires are stoked more by strong winds and temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius mark. Two more deaths were recorded in central Greece on Wednesday. This has taken the death toll from the fires to five.</p>

<p>Officials have been ordering evacuations of several communities since Wednesday in the hard-hit area of of Magnesia. It is a coastal area north of Athens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More people were forced to evacuate on Thursday, some via private speed boats, and head to the nearby port city of Volos, as flames rekindled.</p>

<p>Powerful explosions were heard from an ammunition depot in the coastal town of Nea Aghialos, Greek state television ERT reported.</p>

<p>ERT cited unnamed sources to say that the ammunition depot belonged to the Greek air forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There were dozens of blasts which caused glass windows to shatter, people got panic," the mayor of the nearby port city of Volos, the regional capital, Achilleas Beos told Open television.</p>

<p>Ioannis Artopoios, spokesperson of Greek fire brigade said that firefighters made a "superhuman effort" but could not tame the fires in the wider area of Volos and in Aghialos.</p>

<p>The fire brigade said more than 500 wildfires have burned across the country so far this year. While summer fires are common in Greece, scientists say higher temperatures and dryer weather are turning it into a Mediterranean hotspot for climate change.</p>

<p>Mitsotakis said Greece needed to reform its fire fighting and fire prevention policies and do more to alleviate the impact of climate change.</p>

<p>"The climate crisis may be a reality, but it cannot be an excuse," he said during a meeting with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou.</p>

<p>"Our country ought to take more steps ... to be ready to mitigate, as much as possible, the effects of a reality that we are already starting to feel, and that could have dramatic effects on many different aspects of our economic and social life," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight. The blazing fires are stoked more by strong winds and temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius mark. Two more deaths were recorded in central Greece on Wednesday. This has taken the death toll from the fires to five. Officials have been ordering evacuations of several communities since Wednesday in the hard-hit area of of Magnesia. It is a coastal area north of Athens. More people were forced to evacuate on Thursday, some via private speed boats, and head to the nearby port city of Volos, as flames rekindled. Powerful explosions were heard from an ammunition depot in the coastal town of Nea Aghialos, Greek state television ERT reported. ERT cited unnamed sources to say that the ammunition depot belonged to the Greek air forces. "There were dozens of blasts which caused glass windows to shatter, people got panic," the mayor of the nearby port city of Volos, the regional capital, Achilleas Beos told Open television. Ioannis Artopoios, spokesperson of Greek fire brigade said that firefighters made a "superhuman effort" but could not tame the fires in the wider area of Volos and in Aghialos. The fire brigade said more than 500 wildfires have burned across the country so far this year. While summer fires are common in Greece, scientists say higher temperatures and dryer weather are turning it into a Mediterranean hotspot for climate change. Mitsotakis said Greece needed to reform its fire fighting and fire prevention policies and do more to alleviate the impact of climate change. "The climate crisis may be a reality, but it cannot be an excuse," he said during a meeting with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. "Our country ought to take more steps ... to be ready to mitigate, as much as possible, the effects of a reality that we are already starting to feel, and that could have dramatic effects on many different aspects of our economic and social life," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Not an excuse': As wildfires rage, Greek PM says must tackle climate change

<p>Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot. The accident occurred about 30 minutes away from the town of Karystos on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days.</p>

<p>The wildfires in Greece have had devastating consequences, with the plane crash now adding to the tragedy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strategic-trust-eroded-indian-nsa-ajit-doval-minces-no-words-in-talks-with-china-619212">‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China</a></p>

<p>After the tragedy, two helicopters were deployed for search and rescue operations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing wildfires in Rhodes</strong></h2>

<p>The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected.&nbsp;The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: A firefighting plane has crashed in Greece amid ongoing wildfires<a href="https://t.co/JkYbX2Zsmw">pic.twitter.com/JkYbX2Zsmw</a></p>
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<p>As a result, many homes were destroyed, and thousands of tourists on the island were forced to evacuate.</p>

<h2><strong>Efforts to combat fire&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>To combat the wildfires, hundreds of firefighters, along with assistance from Turkey and Slovakia, have been tirelessly battling the flames.&nbsp;Emergency flights were arranged to evacuate holidaymakers from affected areas.</p>

<p>Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the severity of the situation and warned that tough days were ahead.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-banks-pressed-to-rectify-inaccurate-financial-statements-heres-why-619208">US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why</a></p>

<p>"All of us are standing guard," he said adding, "In the face of what the entire planet is facing, especially the Mediterranean which is a climate change hot-spot, there is no magical defence mechanism, if there was we would have implemented it."</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change's role in extreme heatwaves</strong></h2>

<p>The wildfires in Greece occurred amid a larger trend of extreme heatwaves sweeping across various parts of the world.&nbsp;Scientists have indicated that human-induced climate change played a significant role in these heatwaves, affecting regions like North America, southern Europe, and China.</p>

<p>Greece has been experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, and the weather conditions are expected to worsen in the coming days. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate further risks of wildfires and ensure the safety of the population.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Authorities in Greece, including a prosecutor on Rhodes, launched an investigation to determine the causes of the fires and evaluate the preparedness and response of authorities.</p>

<p>A significant portion of the island's land area has already been consumed by the flames. Tourism, a crucial economic sector in Greece, has been severely affected, especially on Rhodes, a popular summer destination.</p>

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Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot.

Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot. The accident occurred about 30 minutes away from the town of Karystos on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days. The wildfires in Greece have had devastating consequences, with the plane crash now adding to the tragedy. The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire. Also Read | ‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China After the tragedy, two helicopters were deployed for search and rescue operations. Ongoing wildfires in Rhodes The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected. The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions. BREAKING: A firefighting plane has crashed in Greece amid ongoing wildfirespic.twitter.com/JkYbX2Zsmw — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) July 25, 2023 × As a result, many homes were destroyed, and thousands of tourists on the island were forced to evacuate. Efforts to combat fire To combat the wildfires, hundreds of firefighters, along with assistance from Turkey and Slovakia, have been tirelessly battling the flames. Emergency flights were arranged to evacuate holidaymakers from affected areas. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the severity of the situation and warned that tough days were ahead. Also Read | US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why "All of us are standing guard," he said adding, "In the face of what the entire planet is facing, especially the Mediterranean which is a climate change hot-spot, there is no magical defence mechanism, if there was we would have implemented it." Climate change's role in extreme heatwaves The wildfires in Greece occurred amid a larger trend of extreme heatwaves sweeping across various parts of the world. Scientists have indicated that human-induced climate change played a significant role in these heatwaves, affecting regions like North America, southern Europe, and China. Greece has been experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, and the weather conditions are expected to worsen in the coming days. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate further risks of wildfires and ensure the safety of the population. Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers × Authorities in Greece, including a prosecutor on Rhodes, launched an investigation to determine the causes of the fires and evaluate the preparedness and response of authorities. A significant portion of the island's land area has already been consumed by the flames. Tourism, a crucial economic sector in Greece, has been severely affected, especially on Rhodes, a popular summer destination. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Video | Two dead after plane fighting wildfires in Greece crashes, bursts into flames

<p>The US Forest Service's own prescribed burn started a sprawling 2022 wildfire that nearly reached Los Alamos, New Mexico, the agency acknowledged on Monday in a report published after a lengthy investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Cerro Pelado fire burned in dry, windy conditions across more than 60 square miles (155 square kilometres) and crept within a few miles of the city of Los Alamos and its companion US national security lab. As the fire approached, schools closed and evacuation bags were packed before the flames tapered off.</p>

<p>Investigators traced the wildfire to a burn of piles of forest debris commissioned by the Forest Service. The burn became a holdover fire, smouldering undetected under wet snow, with no signs of smoke or heat for months, said Southwestern Regional Forester Michiko Martin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The revelation prompted immediate rebukes against the Forest Service by New Mexico political leaders, including Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. She said she was "outraged over the US Forest Service's negligence that caused this destruction".</p>

<p>Episodes of extremely hot and dry weather in recent years have triggered concerns about prescribed burns as techniques for clearing forest debris, concerns that Grisham echoed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The federal government already has acknowledged that it started the largest wildfire in state history, which charged more than 530 square miles (1,373 square kilometres) of the Rocky Mountain foothills east of Santa Fe, New Mexico, destroying homes and livelihoods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Forest Service last spring halted all prescribed burn operations for 90 days while it conducted a review of procedures and policies. By the end of the moratorium, managers learned that they can't rely on past success, and must continuously learn and adapt to changing conditions, Forest Service Chief Randy Moore recently told New Mexico lawmakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Firefighters now monitor pile burns using handheld thermal devices and drones that can detect heat, Martin said Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Examples of prescribed burns that escaped control include the 2000 Cerro Grande Fire that swept through residential areas of Los Alamos and across 12 square miles (31 square kilometres) of the laboratory —&nbsp;more than one-quarter of the campus. The fire destroyed more than 230 homes and 45 structures at the lab. In 2011, a larger and faster-moving fire burned the fringes of the lab.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the spring of 2022, wildfires were propelled by ferocious winds across Arizona and New Mexico, combined with extreme drought and warm temperatures, casting a pall of smoke across the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Sen. Martin Heinrich urged the Forest Service to be more nimble in its investigations and decisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The warming climate is making our forests more vulnerable to catastrophic wildfires. That's a reality that our Forest Service can and must urgently respond to when deciding when and how to do prescribed burns,"&nbsp;he said in a statement.</p>

<p>"We cannot catch up to this reality if it takes nearly a year to even make the findings on the Cerro Pelado Fire public."&nbsp;</p>

<p>An initial probe into the origin of the Cerro Pelado fire was conducted by a wildland fire investigator from Washington state's Department of Natural Resources and pointed toward an ash pit from the earlier prescribed burn as the likely source, while ruling out other potential sources such as campfires and lightning. But it stopped short of a definitive conclusion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Forest Service commissioned a second investigation by its own special agents and concluded that the prescribed burn and its windblown embers were the cause.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Biden administration is trying to confront worsening wildfires in the US West through a multi-billion dollar cleanup of forests choked with dead trees and undergrowth. Chainsaws, heavy machinery,&nbsp;and controlled burns, are major components of the effort, with Congress in the last two years approving more than USD 4 billion in new funding to prevent repeats of destructive infernos.&nbsp;<br />
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The US Forest Service's own prescribed burn started a sprawling 2022 wildfire that nearly reached Los Alamos, New Mexico, the agency acknowledged on Monday in a report published after a lengthy investigation.

The US Forest Service's own prescribed burn started a sprawling 2022 wildfire that nearly reached Los Alamos, New Mexico, the agency acknowledged on Monday in a report published after a lengthy investigation. The Cerro Pelado fire burned in dry, windy conditions across more than 60 square miles (155 square kilometres) and crept within a few miles of the city of Los Alamos and its companion US national security lab. As the fire approached, schools closed and evacuation bags were packed before the flames tapered off. Investigators traced the wildfire to a burn of piles of forest debris commissioned by the Forest Service. The burn became a holdover fire, smouldering undetected under wet snow, with no signs of smoke or heat for months, said Southwestern Regional Forester Michiko Martin. The revelation prompted immediate rebukes against the Forest Service by New Mexico political leaders, including Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. She said she was "outraged over the US Forest Service's negligence that caused this destruction". Episodes of extremely hot and dry weather in recent years have triggered concerns about prescribed burns as techniques for clearing forest debris, concerns that Grisham echoed. The federal government already has acknowledged that it started the largest wildfire in state history, which charged more than 530 square miles (1,373 square kilometres) of the Rocky Mountain foothills east of Santa Fe, New Mexico, destroying homes and livelihoods. The Forest Service last spring halted all prescribed burn operations for 90 days while it conducted a review of procedures and policies. By the end of the moratorium, managers learned that they can't rely on past success, and must continuously learn and adapt to changing conditions, Forest Service Chief Randy Moore recently told New Mexico lawmakers. Firefighters now monitor pile burns using handheld thermal devices and drones that can detect heat, Martin said Monday. Examples of prescribed burns that escaped control include the 2000 Cerro Grande Fire that swept through residential areas of Los Alamos and across 12 square miles (31 square kilometres) of the laboratory — more than one-quarter of the campus. The fire destroyed more than 230 homes and 45 structures at the lab. In 2011, a larger and faster-moving fire burned the fringes of the lab. In the spring of 2022, wildfires were propelled by ferocious winds across Arizona and New Mexico, combined with extreme drought and warm temperatures, casting a pall of smoke across the region. US Sen. Martin Heinrich urged the Forest Service to be more nimble in its investigations and decisions. "The warming climate is making our forests more vulnerable to catastrophic wildfires. That's a reality that our Forest Service can and must urgently respond to when deciding when and how to do prescribed burns," he said in a statement. "We cannot catch up to this reality if it takes nearly a year to even make the findings on the Cerro Pelado Fire public." An initial probe into the origin of the Cerro Pelado fire was conducted by a wildland fire investigator from Washington state's Department of Natural Resources and pointed toward an ash pit from the earlier prescribed burn as the likely source, while ruling out other potential sources such as campfires and lightning. But it stopped short of a definitive conclusion. The Forest Service commissioned a second investigation by its own special agents and concluded that the prescribed burn and its windblown embers were the cause. The Biden administration is trying to confront worsening wildfires in the US West through a multi-billion dollar cleanup of forests choked with dead trees and undergrowth. Chainsaws, heavy machinery, and controlled burns, are major components of the effort, with Congress in the last two years approving more than USD 4 billion in new funding to prevent repeats of destructive infernos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Forest Service burn started wildfire that nearly reached Los Alamos, New Mexico

<p>As wildfires rage on the Greek island of Rhodes for the seventh day, more than 2,000 holidayers have been evacuated on Monday (July 24th). Upcoming trips have been cancelled by tour operators as fires remain out of control on Tuesday (July 25th).</p>

<p>Reuters reports that even as repatriation flights continued on&nbsp;Tuesday, the nation's Civil Protection authority warned that almost every part of Greece remains in the grip of a record-breaking heatwave, and that the threat of further blazes remains high.</p>

<h2>Dutch ministry&nbsp;<strong>issues&nbsp;travel warning </strong></h2>

<p>The Dutch foreign ministry has issued a travel warning for Rhodes, and the nearby islands of Corfu and Evia, that have also seen wildfires break out in recent days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the weekend, in Rhodes, some 20,000 people were forced to leave their homes and hotels as the "inferno" that began last Tuesday reached the coastal resorts on the island's southeast over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-2500-tourists-evacuated-from-greek-island-of-corfu-amid-raging-wildfires-618841">Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires</a></strong></p>

<p>The Greek islands, as per Reuters, are popular with sun seeking European tourists, mostly from Britain and Germany.</p>

<p>TUI, which is one of the world's largest tour operators, announced that it was cancelling trips to the island on Friday. In lieu, it offered free cancellations and rebooking to other locations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuations amid&nbsp;firefighting </strong></h2>

<p>Talking to Reuters, fire brigade spokesperson Ioanis Artopios said,&nbsp;"Firefighting forces have not stopped operating since Tuesday."</p>

<p>"Crews have been heading from Athens to replace their colleagues... they are working in very tough conditions amid extreme heat," added Artopios.</p>

<p>As per the spokesperson, on Monday, hundreds of people were also evacuated from areas other than the southeast coastal resort areas, while seven firefighting aircraft would continue to battle the flames until nightfall.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-one-killed-after-bridge-collapses-in-patras-rhodes-wildfire-forces-thousands-to-evacuate-618648">Greece: One killed after bridge collapses in Patras; Rhodes wildfire forces thousands to evacuate</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Greek coastguards vessels have been patrolling the coastline, evacuating tourists by the sea.</p>

<p>As per the Greek government, authorities are carrying out the largest evacuation ever undertaken in the nation.</p>

<h2><strong>We are at&nbsp;war: PM&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"For the next few weeks, we must be on constant alert. We are at war. We will rebuild what we lost, we will compensate those who were hurt," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>"The climate crisis is already here, it will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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As wildfires rage on the Greek island of Rhodes for the seventh day, more than 2,000 holidayers have been evacuated on Monday (July 24th). Upcoming trips have been cancelled by tour operators as fires remain out of control on Tuesday (July 25th).

As wildfires rage on the Greek island of Rhodes for the seventh day, more than 2,000 holidayers have been evacuated on Monday (July 24th). Upcoming trips have been cancelled by tour operators as fires remain out of control on Tuesday (July 25th). Reuters reports that even as repatriation flights continued on Tuesday, the nation's Civil Protection authority warned that almost every part of Greece remains in the grip of a record-breaking heatwave, and that the threat of further blazes remains high. Dutch ministry issues travel warning The Dutch foreign ministry has issued a travel warning for Rhodes, and the nearby islands of Corfu and Evia, that have also seen wildfires break out in recent days. Over the weekend, in Rhodes, some 20,000 people were forced to leave their homes and hotels as the "inferno" that began last Tuesday reached the coastal resorts on the island's southeast over the weekend. Also read | Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires The Greek islands, as per Reuters, are popular with sun seeking European tourists, mostly from Britain and Germany. TUI, which is one of the world's largest tour operators, announced that it was cancelling trips to the island on Friday. In lieu, it offered free cancellations and rebooking to other locations. Evacuations amid firefighting Talking to Reuters, fire brigade spokesperson Ioanis Artopios said, "Firefighting forces have not stopped operating since Tuesday." "Crews have been heading from Athens to replace their colleagues... they are working in very tough conditions amid extreme heat," added Artopios. As per the spokesperson, on Monday, hundreds of people were also evacuated from areas other than the southeast coastal resort areas, while seven firefighting aircraft would continue to battle the flames until nightfall. Also read | Greece: One killed after bridge collapses in Patras; Rhodes wildfire forces thousands to evacuate In addition, Greek coastguards vessels have been patrolling the coastline, evacuating tourists by the sea. As per the Greek government, authorities are carrying out the largest evacuation ever undertaken in the nation. We are at war: PM "For the next few weeks, we must be on constant alert. We are at war. We will rebuild what we lost, we will compensate those who were hurt," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament, as quoted by Reuters. "The climate crisis is already here, it will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We are at war': Authorities issue warning as wildfires batter Greek island of Rhodes for the seventh day

<p>An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP. Separately, the wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes which prompted the biggest evacuation operation ever in response to a fire the country has ever witnessed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Under-construction bridge collapses</strong></h2>

<p>A report by AFP citing rescuers said that a bridge that was under construction collapsed near the city of Patras and some people were trapped underneath.&nbsp;The Greek police later reported that at least one person was killed and eight others were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We can confirm that the bridge collapsed. We are operating at the scene. There are people trapped but we don't know the exact number,” the fire brigade told AFP earlier. The&nbsp;bridge, located in the Proastio area on the road to the capital city of Athens, had been&nbsp;closed last week due to reconstruction works, said a&nbsp;fire brigade official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuations underway in Rhodes</strong></h2>

<p>According to Greek police, the wildfires on the island of Rhodes have sparked the biggest Greek evacuation operation ever in response to a fire. “We had to evacuate an area of 30,000 people. Everything thank God went smoothly. Everybody, especially tourists, followed what we ordered,” Konstantia Dimoglidou, Greek police spokeswoman told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “This is the biggest fire evacuation ever in Greece.” This comes as wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes, on Sunday, as thousands were evacuated from coastal villages and resorts.</p>

<p>Tourists and island residents were told to shelter in schools and indoor stadiums while thousands spent the night outdoors. A day earlier,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wildfire-on-greek-island-of-rhodes-prompts-evacuation-of-over-2000-people-618539">more than 2,000 people</a> were evacuated using three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats from the beaches on the Greek island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Sunday, flames had spread to the seaside villages of Kiotari, Gennadi, Pefki, Lindos, Lardos and Kalathos, while large groups of people were waiting on the streets to be evacuated. “We have between 4,000 and 5,000 people now accommodated at different structures,” said Thanasis Virinis, a vice mayor of Rhodes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A local government official told Reuters that 19,000 people had been moved away from their homes and hotels and 3,000 by boat. So far, no casualties have been reported due to the wildfires. According to Greek state television, more than 250 firefighters, assisted by 15 aircraft, were trying to contain the blaze across the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fire brigade spokesman Ioannis Artopoios told local media that evacuees, both island residents and tourists, were housed at hotels, indoor stadiums, conference centres and school buildings. He added, “They have been given food, water and medical help.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tourists stuck on island, flights cancelled</strong></p>

<p>Tour groups Jet2 and TUI, on Sunday, have cancelled flights departing for Rhodes amid the wildfires, said the two groups, in separate statements. Meanwhile, Britain’s easyJet said it was operating flights as normal to Rhodes and was closely monitoring the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British embassy in Athens said that the Greek foreign ministry is setting up a help desk at Rhodes Airport to help tourists leave the island, including those who have lost travel documents.</p>

<p>French, German, Dutch and British citizens were among the tourists on Rhodes which can receive as many as 150,000 visitors in peak season, while the resident population is 125,000. “The smoke was coming. So we all set off on foot. I walked 12 miles in this heat yesterday. It took me four hours,” said British tourist Chris Freestone as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also spoke about how TUI did not put on enough coaches for the 800 people at Labranda hotel where he was staying which left guests waiting at the beach for boats that never arrived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP.

An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP. Separately, the wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes which prompted the biggest evacuation operation ever in response to a fire the country has ever witnessed. Under-construction bridge collapses A report by AFP citing rescuers said that a bridge that was under construction collapsed near the city of Patras and some people were trapped underneath. The Greek police later reported that at least one person was killed and eight others were injured. “We can confirm that the bridge collapsed. We are operating at the scene. There are people trapped but we don't know the exact number,” the fire brigade told AFP earlier. The bridge, located in the Proastio area on the road to the capital city of Athens, had been closed last week due to reconstruction works, said a fire brigade official. Evacuations underway in Rhodes According to Greek police, the wildfires on the island of Rhodes have sparked the biggest Greek evacuation operation ever in response to a fire. “We had to evacuate an area of 30,000 people. Everything thank God went smoothly. Everybody, especially tourists, followed what we ordered,” Konstantia Dimoglidou, Greek police spokeswoman told AFP. She added, “This is the biggest fire evacuation ever in Greece.” This comes as wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes, on Sunday, as thousands were evacuated from coastal villages and resorts. Tourists and island residents were told to shelter in schools and indoor stadiums while thousands spent the night outdoors. A day earlier, more than 2,000 people were evacuated using three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats from the beaches on the Greek island. As of Sunday, flames had spread to the seaside villages of Kiotari, Gennadi, Pefki, Lindos, Lardos and Kalathos, while large groups of people were waiting on the streets to be evacuated. “We have between 4,000 and 5,000 people now accommodated at different structures,” said Thanasis Virinis, a vice mayor of Rhodes. A local government official told Reuters that 19,000 people had been moved away from their homes and hotels and 3,000 by boat. So far, no casualties have been reported due to the wildfires. According to Greek state television, more than 250 firefighters, assisted by 15 aircraft, were trying to contain the blaze across the island. Fire brigade spokesman Ioannis Artopoios told local media that evacuees, both island residents and tourists, were housed at hotels, indoor stadiums, conference centres and school buildings. He added, “They have been given food, water and medical help.” Tourists stuck on island, flights cancelled Tour groups Jet2 and TUI, on Sunday, have cancelled flights departing for Rhodes amid the wildfires, said the two groups, in separate statements. Meanwhile, Britain’s easyJet said it was operating flights as normal to Rhodes and was closely monitoring the situation. The British embassy in Athens said that the Greek foreign ministry is setting up a help desk at Rhodes Airport to help tourists leave the island, including those who have lost travel documents. French, German, Dutch and British citizens were among the tourists on Rhodes which can receive as many as 150,000 visitors in peak season, while the resident population is 125,000. “The smoke was coming. So we all set off on foot. I walked 12 miles in this heat yesterday. It took me four hours,” said British tourist Chris Freestone as per Reuters. He also spoke about how TUI did not put on enough coaches for the 800 people at Labranda hotel where he was staying which left guests waiting at the beach for boats that never arrived. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greece: One killed after bridge collapses in Patras; Rhodes wildfire forces thousands to evacuate

According to Yannis Artopios, a spokeswoman for the fire department, at least 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated with the aid of three coast guard vessels, one army lifeboat, and 30 private sailboats. 30,000 people were relocated to safer areas. All of the guests, according to Artopios, had been securely ejected from the hotels and rental properties.

Wildfire on Greek Island of Rhodes forces thousands to evacuate

<p>More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22). Firefighters, using reinforcements from Slovakia, have been working to put out the blaze which has burned for a fifth day, fanned by strong winds.</p>

<h2><strong>About the evacuations</strong></h2>

<p>So far, three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats have evacuated over 2,000 people, including tourists, from the beaches on the Greek island, according to media reports citing coastguard spokesman Nikos Alexiou.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 1,500 of those evacuated from areas of Kiotari and Lardos, in the southeastern part of the popular Mediterranean island, were taken to a safe beach, said the coastguard. Furthermore, those evacuated are being housed at an indoor stadium and at hotels on the island, said Konstantinos Taraslias, a deputy mayor of Rhodes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the coastguard said that three passenger ferries were committed to host tourists during the night, reported Reuters. According to the Greek media, the fire has scorched large parts of the forest since it first broke out on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three hotels in the seaside village of Kiotari, on Saturday, were reported damaged&nbsp;due to the wildfire and some 30 buses were used to evacuate tourists from two hotels as a precaution. So far, around 30,000 people have been taken away from the evacuated areas, said the local authorities, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Response to the wildfire</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, firefighters backed by air-water bombers and reinforcements from Slovakia are struggling to put out the new outbreaks of wildfire which have been attributed to strong winds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We had set up firebreaks around the village of Laerma last night, but a 180-degree change of the winds this morning helped the fire grow much bigger across many kilometres...reaching a tourist area,” Taraslias told Open TV.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, ERT TV reported that some firefighters were stranded in the Ypseni Monastery near Lardos while trying to convince the nuns living there to leave the area. However, the firefighters and their commander were said to be safe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Greek fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the wildfire on Rhodes which reportedly broke out on a mountain in the centre of the island has been the most difficult challenge that they have faced yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blaze in the Laermon and Lardos areas of the island was reported to be out of control. At least five helicopters and 173 firefighters were operating in the area. This comes as much of Europe, including Greece, is witnessing a heatwave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials have warned of a very high risk of wildfires on Rhodes as well as several parts of Greece on Sunday as temperatures were expected to hit 45 degree&nbsp;Celsius due to the heatwave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22).

More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22). Firefighters, using reinforcements from Slovakia, have been working to put out the blaze which has burned for a fifth day, fanned by strong winds. About the evacuations So far, three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats have evacuated over 2,000 people, including tourists, from the beaches on the Greek island, according to media reports citing coastguard spokesman Nikos Alexiou. At least 1,500 of those evacuated from areas of Kiotari and Lardos, in the southeastern part of the popular Mediterranean island, were taken to a safe beach, said the coastguard. Furthermore, those evacuated are being housed at an indoor stadium and at hotels on the island, said Konstantinos Taraslias, a deputy mayor of Rhodes. Meanwhile, the coastguard said that three passenger ferries were committed to host tourists during the night, reported Reuters. According to the Greek media, the fire has scorched large parts of the forest since it first broke out on Tuesday. Three hotels in the seaside village of Kiotari, on Saturday, were reported damaged due to the wildfire and some 30 buses were used to evacuate tourists from two hotels as a precaution. So far, around 30,000 people have been taken away from the evacuated areas, said the local authorities, as per AFP. Response to the wildfire According to reports, firefighters backed by air-water bombers and reinforcements from Slovakia are struggling to put out the new outbreaks of wildfire which have been attributed to strong winds. “We had set up firebreaks around the village of Laerma last night, but a 180-degree change of the winds this morning helped the fire grow much bigger across many kilometres...reaching a tourist area,” Taraslias told Open TV. Meanwhile, ERT TV reported that some firefighters were stranded in the Ypseni Monastery near Lardos while trying to convince the nuns living there to leave the area. However, the firefighters and their commander were said to be safe. Greek fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the wildfire on Rhodes which reportedly broke out on a mountain in the centre of the island has been the most difficult challenge that they have faced yet. The blaze in the Laermon and Lardos areas of the island was reported to be out of control. At least five helicopters and 173 firefighters were operating in the area. This comes as much of Europe, including Greece, is witnessing a heatwave. Officials have warned of a very high risk of wildfires on Rhodes as well as several parts of Greece on Sunday as temperatures were expected to hit 45 degree Celsius due to the heatwave. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wildfire on Greek island of Rhodes prompts evacuation of over 2,000 people

Humans and wildlife are embroiled in a battle for resources around the world. An escaped lioness was spotted wandering on roads near Berlin.

Man vs wild: battle for resources

The battle to douse wildfires in Greece saw some success after razing swathes of forest and dozens of homes in the past few days. Throughout the last decade, mega wildfires like these have become routine news. Unprecedented fires have burned millions of hectares of land and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.

Humans often responsible for wildfires: German fire officer

In pics | Firefighters battle 81 wildfires across Greece, thousands near Athens evacuated

<p>The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands. The blaze is said to have been fuelled by a heatwave and strong winds, according to&nbsp;firefighters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wildfires prompt evacuations</strong></h2>

<p>Multiple wildfires have been reported across southern Greece after the fire was said to have been started in Kouvaras which is some 50 kilometres southeast of Athens and spread fast amid erratic winds up to 70 km/hour.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The blaze quickly spread south toward the Attica region as well as Lagonissi, Anavyssos and Saronida, where several homes were burned, reported AFP citing footage by the public broadcaster ERT. Several houses and cars were also seen gutted by the fire while thick white smoke billowed in wooded areas. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, another wildfire was reported in the popular beach town of Loutraki where the town’s mayor, Giorgos Gkionis, said, “We have saved 1,200 children who were in the holiday camps.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The army, police special forces and volunteer rescuers also evacuated a rehabilitation centre for seniors and rescued horses from a stable in the area, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, firefighters were also trying to tackle the flame near Lagonisi, some 40 kilometres southeast of the Greek capital, which is home to thousands of seaside vacation houses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, thick smoke also blocked traffic in the nearby Kalyvia, where the authorities have asked residents to leave the area and the monks were evacuated from a local monastery.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Man arrested for suspected arson</strong></h2>

<p>Fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the police have arrested “a foreigner who allegedly caused the fire” in Kouvaras. No other information about the man was immediately available.</p>

<h2><strong>Response to 81 fires in Greece</strong></h2>

<p>Officials were&nbsp;in the midst of battling a total of&nbsp;81 blazes&nbsp;across the country, on&nbsp;Monday.&nbsp;According to local authorities, around 200 firemen, 20 soldiers, 68 engines and 16 aircraft have been deployed to get the blaze under control, said a Greek fire service official, as per Reuters.</p>

<p>“Due to high winds, the blaze spread across 12 kilometres in two hours,” said Artopoios. While the fire brigade has also been placed on standby in the wider Athens area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in Loutraki, around&nbsp;135 firemen with 50 fire engines, 40 soldiers and 13 aircraft have been deployed to contain the fire which has since disrupted train services and also prompted officials to shut down a part of the highway, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The conditions are changing constantly and this has to be matched by our response. We have ordered multiple evacuations,” said Artopios, adding that the mountainous terrain and wind have slowed down the firefighting efforts.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He also spoke about how Tuesday will also be a "very difficult day" as there is a "very high risk for fires" and strong winds will persist.</p>

<h2><strong>Heatwave, forest fire warnings in Greece</strong></h2>

<p>This comes as Greece along with the rest of Europe has been witnessing a heatwave since last week with temperatures reaching as high as 44 degree Celsius, in some parts of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, greater Athens and much of southern Greece were placed on the second highest level of alert for wildfires Monday and Tuesday after the four-day heatwave in the country, with some respite over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands.

The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands. The blaze is said to have been fuelled by a heatwave and strong winds, according to firefighters. Wildfires prompt evacuations Multiple wildfires have been reported across southern Greece after the fire was said to have been started in Kouvaras which is some 50 kilometres southeast of Athens and spread fast amid erratic winds up to 70 km/hour. The blaze quickly spread south toward the Attica region as well as Lagonissi, Anavyssos and Saronida, where several homes were burned, reported AFP citing footage by the public broadcaster ERT. Several houses and cars were also seen gutted by the fire while thick white smoke billowed in wooded areas. According to reports, another wildfire was reported in the popular beach town of Loutraki where the town’s mayor, Giorgos Gkionis, said, “We have saved 1,200 children who were in the holiday camps.” The army, police special forces and volunteer rescuers also evacuated a rehabilitation centre for seniors and rescued horses from a stable in the area, reported the Associated Press. Additionally, firefighters were also trying to tackle the flame near Lagonisi, some 40 kilometres southeast of the Greek capital, which is home to thousands of seaside vacation houses. According to reports, thick smoke also blocked traffic in the nearby Kalyvia, where the authorities have asked residents to leave the area and the monks were evacuated from a local monastery. Man arrested for suspected arson Fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the police have arrested “a foreigner who allegedly caused the fire” in Kouvaras. No other information about the man was immediately available. Response to 81 fires in Greece Officials were in the midst of battling a total of 81 blazes across the country, on Monday. According to local authorities, around 200 firemen, 20 soldiers, 68 engines and 16 aircraft have been deployed to get the blaze under control, said a Greek fire service official, as per Reuters. “Due to high winds, the blaze spread across 12 kilometres in two hours,” said Artopoios. While the fire brigade has also been placed on standby in the wider Athens area. Meanwhile, in Loutraki, around 135 firemen with 50 fire engines, 40 soldiers and 13 aircraft have been deployed to contain the fire which has since disrupted train services and also prompted officials to shut down a part of the highway, reported Reuters. “The conditions are changing constantly and this has to be matched by our response. We have ordered multiple evacuations,” said Artopios, adding that the mountainous terrain and wind have slowed down the firefighting efforts. He also spoke about how Tuesday will also be a "very difficult day" as there is a "very high risk for fires" and strong winds will persist. Heatwave, forest fire warnings in Greece This comes as Greece along with the rest of Europe has been witnessing a heatwave since last week with temperatures reaching as high as 44 degree Celsius, in some parts of the country. Furthermore, greater Athens and much of southern Greece were placed on the second highest level of alert for wildfires Monday and Tuesday after the four-day heatwave in the country, with some respite over the weekend. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greece arrests man suspected of starting wildfire, thousands evacuated near Athens

Canada is experiencing its worst fire season on record. More than 24 million acres have burned so far this year, and the Canadian wildfire smoke continues to plague the U.S. Air quality alerts issued to 11 U.S. states across the northern Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes.

60 million Americans under air-quality alerts | Canadian wildfire smoke plagues US

In pics | ‘Out of control’ wildfires: Thousands evacuated from Spanish island La Palma

While meteorologists are comparing the current heat wave in Europe to the three-headed Hound of Hell from Greek mythology, wildfires on Spain's La Palma Island are raging out of control and forcing thousands of people to evacuate. At least 4,000 people have been forced to leave their homes as a result.

Spain: Wildfires in Canary Islands, over 10,00 acres of land affected

Wildfires burning through large swathes of eastern and western Canada have released a record 160 million tonnes of carbon, the EU's Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service said on Tuesday.

Canadian wildfire emissions hit record high as smoke reaches Europe

Plumes of smoke from the Canadian wildfires have turned the American skies hazy. Authorities from New York to Minnesota have issued public health alerts. Citizens have been asked to start using masks again to save themselves from toxic particles in the air. Why did the New York sky turn orange? What caused the wildfires in Canada? Are these fires caused by climate change?

What is causing wildfires? United states on alert| Part 2 WION Wideangle

From Australian Bush Fires to California Wildfires to Amazon Rainforest fires -Which are the deadliest wildfires of all time? Wildfires used to be a rare occurrence, but now they have become more frequent and last longer worldwide. This year it is expected that Nepal will record over 9,000 forest fire cases by the end of 2023. Almost every country is affected, and Every continent is burning.

World's worst wildfires | Part 3 WION Wideangle

Wildfires in Canada have displaced more than 20,000 Canadian residents and as fires rage on millions continue to be affected by smoke. Canada is experiencing its worst wildfire season of the 21st century but how did it all start?

How did exactly Canadian wildfires start? | part 1 WION Wideangle

Canada is experiencing its worst wildfire season of the 21st century. 2022 was the second-worst wildfire season in Europe. From Australia to Asia & South America- Every Continent is engulfed. Watch Trail of Flames: Wildfires on WION Wideangle.

Trail of flames: Wildfires | WION Wideangle

Canada sees worst wildfires in extremely warm spring. About 11 million acres of forest area engulfed in wildfire. Relief efforts underway, european mission extends a helping hand. 424 active fires have been reported, of which 230 are out of control.

Over 10 million acres of land burnt to ground in wildfires

<p>The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday (June 8)said it was&nbsp; delaying flights to New York City-area and Philadelphia airports owing to decreased visibility due to smoke drifting from Canada wildfires. The agency said that flights into New York City's LaGuardia Airport were being delayed with an average of 54 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Flights at nearby Newark Liberty Airport were also getting delayed due to visibility issues. The FAA has warned that it may also need to decide to delay traffic into Washington and Charlotte, North Carolina. Earlier, the FAA had temporarily halted flights to LaGuardia and Philadelphia from the US northeast, Ohio and Mid-Atlantic.</p>

<p>United Airlines announced that it was waiving change fees and fair difference for travellers wanting to reschedule trips on Thursday and Friday (June 9) for cities that are impacted by smoky conditions including New York, Buffalo, Washington, Philadelphia, Syracuse, New York,&nbsp;Hartford, Connecticut, and Columbus, Ohio.</p>

<h2><strong>Latest on wildfires</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities across Canada are facing logistical challenges as they juggle resources and call in reinforcements from abroad. These included more than 1000 firefighters from Australia, the United States, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, France, Spain and Portugal.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Canada wildfires: US President Joe Biden assured help as toxic smoke lingers into US</strong></p>

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<p>Wildfires are common in Canada each year but this time the situation is being described as 'unprecedented'. There are wildfires in almost every Canadian province.</p>

<p>"The distribution of fires from coast to coast this year is unusual," said Michael Norton, an official with Canada's Natural Resources ministry as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At this time of year, fires usually occur only on one side of the country at a time, most often in the West."</p>

<p>Millions of hectares of land have been scorched due to the wildfires till now and major Canadian cities are threatened leading to evacuation of thousands of residents.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoke-from-canadian-wildfires-detected-thousands-of-kilometres-away-in-norway-602593">Smoke from Canadian wildfires detected thousands of kilometres away in Norway</a></strong></p>

<p>Normally, Canada's 10 provinces are responsible for managing wildfires within&nbsp;their borders. They get help from Canadian Interagency Fire Centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alberta, Nova Scotia and Quebec have also asked Ottawa to send in the military.</p>

<p>To tackle wildfires this time, military's firefighting capabilities are being expanded. They have an uphill battle ahead of them.</p>

<p>"When a big fire is burning, it is impossible for the firefighters to make a direct attack," explains Marc-Andre Parisien, a specialist in fire risk management. He was quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>And then "sending water bombers to douse flames 30 metres high is like spitting on a campfire, it is ineffective," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One solution is to use controlled burns to halt advancing blazes, but with big fires, "only a big rain" will extinguish them.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday (June 8)said it was delaying flights to New York City-area and Philadelphia airports owing to decreased visibility due to smoke drifting from Canada wildfires.

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday (June 8)said it was delaying flights to New York City-area and Philadelphia airports owing to decreased visibility due to smoke drifting from Canada wildfires. The agency said that flights into New York City's LaGuardia Airport were being delayed with an average of 54 minutes. Flights at nearby Newark Liberty Airport were also getting delayed due to visibility issues. The FAA has warned that it may also need to decide to delay traffic into Washington and Charlotte, North Carolina. Earlier, the FAA had temporarily halted flights to LaGuardia and Philadelphia from the US northeast, Ohio and Mid-Atlantic. United Airlines announced that it was waiving change fees and fair difference for travellers wanting to reschedule trips on Thursday and Friday (June 9) for cities that are impacted by smoky conditions including New York, Buffalo, Washington, Philadelphia, Syracuse, New York, Hartford, Connecticut, and Columbus, Ohio. Latest on wildfires Authorities across Canada are facing logistical challenges as they juggle resources and call in reinforcements from abroad. These included more than 1000 firefighters from Australia, the United States, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, France, Spain and Portugal. Watch | Canada wildfires: US President Joe Biden assured help as toxic smoke lingers into US × Wildfires are common in Canada each year but this time the situation is being described as 'unprecedented'. There are wildfires in almost every Canadian province. "The distribution of fires from coast to coast this year is unusual," said Michael Norton, an official with Canada's Natural Resources ministry as quoted by AFP. "At this time of year, fires usually occur only on one side of the country at a time, most often in the West." Millions of hectares of land have been scorched due to the wildfires till now and major Canadian cities are threatened leading to evacuation of thousands of residents. Also Read | Smoke from Canadian wildfires detected thousands of kilometres away in Norway Normally, Canada's 10 provinces are responsible for managing wildfires within their borders. They get help from Canadian Interagency Fire Centre. Alberta, Nova Scotia and Quebec have also asked Ottawa to send in the military. To tackle wildfires this time, military's firefighting capabilities are being expanded. They have an uphill battle ahead of them. "When a big fire is burning, it is impossible for the firefighters to make a direct attack," explains Marc-Andre Parisien, a specialist in fire risk management. He was quoted by AFP. And then "sending water bombers to douse flames 30 metres high is like spitting on a campfire, it is ineffective," he said. One solution is to use controlled burns to halt advancing blazes, but with big fires, "only a big rain" will extinguish them. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US delays flights to New York as wildfire smoke reduces visibility

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