American experts determined: Limassol mountain fire ignited by cigarette butt

American experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) established the cause of the large and deadly fire that occurred in July in the Limassol mountains. Following a 10-day investigation, it was determined that the blaze started on July 23 due to a carelessly discarded cigarette by the roadside of the Malia — Arsos road. Experts narrowed the ignition point down to an area of 30 by 30 centimeters. Two cigarette butts were found at the site, one of which was partially burned. The evidence has been handed over to the Cypriot authorities, and a DNA analysis is being considered to identify the person who discarded the cigarette.

The fire became one of the most destructive in recent years on the island. It claimed the lives of two people, destroyed hundreds of homes, and scorched vast areas. According to various reports, more than 220 houses were completely burned, over 300 buildings were partially damaged, and the fire affected around 25,000 acres — more than 10,000 hectares. Some sources mention even higher figures, considering damaged structures of different types.

Investigators noted that on the day of the tragedy, the island experienced extreme weather conditions: the temperature reached 39 degrees, air humidity remained at 19 percent, and strong winds fueled the spread of the flames. Under such conditions, the likelihood of ignition from the smallest spark was assessed as 100 percent. Arson, lightning strikes, and technical malfunction were ruled out.

The investigation was conducted at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides. Meanwhile, parliament continues hearings on the actions of emergency services during the first hours of the disaster.

Cypriot authorities emphasize that the tragedy must serve as a reminder of the need for strict adherence to fire safety rules. A single unextinguished cigarette butt in conditions of heat and drought can lead to catastrophic consequences.