Intense Wildfire in Cyprus Claims Lives and Forces Evacuations

Nicosia, Cyprus, July 24 (AP) - In a tragic aftermath of a massive wildfire on the southern side of Cyprus' Troodos mountain range, police discovered two bodies inside a burned-out car on Thursday. This devastating fire ravaged 100 square kilometers of forested hillsides, destroyed numerous homes, and forced the evacuation of a dozen villages.

Initially, police reported that Civil Defence personnel had discovered a single charred body in the vehicle along a main road connecting the affected hillside villages. However, a second body was found early Thursday morning, and authorities are now working on identifying the victims.

Images shared on social media showed the gutted vehicle on the shoulder of the main Monagri-Alassa road, bearing silent testimony to the fire's destruction. Fire Service Spokesman Andreas Kettis informed the state-run Cyprus News Agency that while no active fire fronts remain, crews are still tackling many flare-ups. Moreover, weather forecasts predict increased winds throughout the day. Up to 14 aircraft are conducting water drops over hard-to-reach areas.

Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis stated that over 100 evacuees from fire-stricken communities are currently sheltered in temporary accommodations. The fire resulted in the evacuation of 14 villages over a 14-kilometer stretch of terrain. Media reports revealed scenes of gutted homes smoldering as flames encroached upon some village outskirts, with Lofou witnessing the destruction of at least 20 homes. A group of stranded evacuees faced a dire situation when police buses had to retreat after the fire shifted, blocking their planned exit route.

Broadcast media captured stunning images late Wednesday of flames engulfing trees, brush, and other vegetation along a vast front, burning bright orange against the nighttime sky.

With the situation dire, police maintain road closures to the fire-impacted communities, while local residents express frustration and anger at what they describe as a disorganized response to the crisis.

Government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis announced that Spain would send two firefighting aircraft Thursday morning to aid local efforts. Jordan has provided assistance with two helicopters, already stationed in Cyprus for firefighting purposes. Additionally, an RAF Chinook helicopter from one of the two British bases on Cyprus is contributing to the effort.

In a show of solidarity, Limassol Municipality and the local soccer club Apollonas have offered apartments and a basketball court, respectively, to house evacuees temporarily. Cyprus has remained on high alert for fires this summer following three consecutive arid winters.

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