Wildfire on Andros island triggers 112 emergency alert as firefighters and helicopter deployed
A wildfire broke out on the island of Andros on 16 August 2026, prompting an emergency 112 alert as 20 firefighters, a helicopter, and volunteers battled the blaze in strong winds.
Fire breaks out on Andros
A wildfire erupted on the island of Andros on 16 August 2026, in the Kato Aprovatos area, burning agricultural-forest land. The Fire Brigade's Operations Centre was notified at approximately 08:00. The blaze comes as strong winds continue across the Aegean, and Andros is classified under fire risk category 4 (very high) for the day.
- Fire reported in Kato Aprovatos area of Andros on agricultural-forest land
- Emergency alert 112 sent to residents in the wider fire area
Emergency alert issued
At 08:14, an emergency 112 alert was sent to inform people in the wider area of the fire. The message read:
Residents were urged to stay alert and comply with official guidance.Fire in the Aprovatos area of the Regional Unit of Andros. Remain on standby and follow the instructions of the Authorities.
Response forces mobilised
A firefighting operation was launched with 20 firefighters, one foot patrol unit, 5 vehicles, and volunteers. One helicopter was mobilised for aerial firefighting. Water tankers from the Municipality of Andros are also assisting, along with municipal machinery.
Arson investigation activated
The Cyclades Arson Investigation Team (Anakritiko Klimakio Antimetopisis Egklimaton Empriasmon Kykladon) was activated to investigate the causes and circumstances of the fire. The deployment of this specialised unit follows standard procedure when a wildfire's origin requires formal examination.
Weather conditions
Strong winds are blowing across the region, compounding the difficulty of containment. The Aegean has been experiencing sustained winds, and Andros's fire risk for 16 August is rated at category 4, the second-highest level on Greece's five-tier fire danger scale. No casualties or property damage have been reported in the source articles as of the time of publication.
