Cyprus engulfed by fire: evacuations, casualties, and international aid

Since July 23, Cyprus has been experiencing one of the most devastating disasters in recent years — powerful wildfires have swept through the mountainous areas of Limassol and parts of Paphos. The flames rapidly spread from the village of Mallia across dozens of kilometers, destroying homes, infrastructure, and forests. According to official data, the fire got out of control amid record-breaking heat, dry air, and strong winds reaching force 8 on the Beaufort scale.

Evacuations affected over 14 villages and campsites, including Lofou, Vouni, Souni–Zanatzia, Vasa Kilaniou, Kivides, and others. Children were also urgently evacuated from a summer camp in Kato Platres — buses with children were surrounded by flames, but drivers managed to reroute in time, avoiding tragedy.

Fatalities and injuries:

Two people were found dead in burned vehicles on the Lania–Alassa road and near Platres. More than 10 people were hospitalized with burns and smoke inhalation, including a 73-year-old man. Hospitals were placed on emergency footing, with Nicosia's burn unit on highest alert.

Destruction and damage:

The fire completely destroyed the village of Souni. In Vouni, a chapel burned down; in Vasa Kilaniou, houses and a hotel were damaged; and in Lofou, the village center was affected. Power was cut in the villages and communication lines were destroyed. Mass evacuations caused traffic jams and chaos on the roads.

Rescue operation:

About 300 firefighters, 75 vehicles, 14 aircraft, and hundreds of volunteers were involved in extinguishing the fires. Aircraft were withdrawn overnight but resumed operations at dawn. The emergency response plan was activated, and Cyprus requested international assistance. Aircraft and helicopters from Jordan and Spain are expected to arrive on July 24.

Relief and shelter centers:

Dozens of temporary shelters have been opened in Limassol and surrounding rural areas. The Ploutis Servas center, Alphamega supermarket in Trimiklini, schools, cafés, cultural centers, and trade unions are hosting evacuees, providing housing, water, and food.

Fire whirlwinds and new outbreaks:

A fire tornado was recorded in the mountains of Limassol — a fiery vortex with temperatures up to 1090 °C and wind speeds up to 200 km/h. NASA registered over 50 fire outbreaks. Local fires continue in the Marathounda–Episkopi–Axylou area (Paphos).

Official warnings:

The Ministry of Interior demands the immediate evacuation of all residents from mountain villages and tourist zones. Citizens are urged not to approach the disaster zone, to follow police instructions, and to stay updated. Key roads, including Trimiklini–Lania–Alassa, are closed.

International response:

The President of Cyprus is coordinating emergency services on the ground. TRNC leader Ersin Tatar expressed readiness to send equipment and personnel. France and the United Kingdom have also offered assistance to Cyprus.

Causes:

Preliminary reports suggest negligence or deliberate arson. Such crimes are common in Southern Europe during the summer season.