Outbreak and immediate response

A forest fire ignited close to the village of Neochori in the South Pilion area on the night of 20 July 2026 at approximately 22:30. The Operations Centre of the Hellenic Fire Service was alerted and immediately mobilised ground forces. The region had been designated a high fire-risk area (category 3) that day.

Firefighting deployment

A total of 48 firefighters took part in the operation, supported by three ground teams from the 10th Special Disaster Response Unit (EMODE) and 13 fire engines. Assistance was also provided by water tankers and earth-moving machinery belonging to the Municipality of South Pilion. The combined effort extinguished the active front in roughly half an hour.

“The timing of the fire is considered suspicious.”

Investigation into possible arson

President of the Municipal Council of South Pilion Ramatas expressed the view that the fire may have been the result of arson, noting the late hour of its outbreak as a factor that aroused suspicion. The Investigative Unit for Arson Crimes of Magnesia has traveled to the scene to determine the exact causes. The Fire Service's official inquiry is ongoing.

Monitoring and situational awareness

Throughout the incident, the Unified Coordination Centre for Operations and Crisis Management (ESKEDIK) received a continuous feed from a drone equipped with thermal and optical cameras. This real-time imagery allowed commanders to assess the fire's behaviour and direct resources efficiently even during the night-time operation.

Aftermath

By late Monday night the fire no longer had an active front. No injuries or damage to buildings were reported in the initial assessments. Firefighting units remained in the area for mopping-up operations and to guard against rekindling, while the investigation team began its work at first light on Tuesday.