Wildfire in Imeros, Rhodope triggers 112 evacuation of Ambelakia and Profitis Ilias
A wildfire in low vegetation broke out midday on 12 August 2026 in the Imeros area of Rhodope, Greece, prompting a 112 alert to evacuate Ambelakia and Profitis Ilias toward Maroneia.
Outbreak and location
A wildfire broke out at midday on Wednesday, 12 August 2026 in the Imeros area of the Rhodope regional unit in northeastern Greece. The fire is burning in low vegetation, according to the Greek fire service. The exact size of the fire front has not yet been disclosed, with authorities stating that an update on the extent of the front, the mobilised forces and the course of the blaze is expected.
Evacuation order via 112
Because of the fire, Greece's emergency alert system 112 sent a message to residents in the area. The message instructed anyone in the areas of Ambelakia and Profitis Ilias to move away toward Maroneia and to follow the instructions of the authorities.
The 112 alert read:
Fire in the Imeros area of the Rhodope Regional Unit. If you are in the Ambelakia and Profitis Ilias area, move away toward Maroneia.
Firefighting response
The fire service has deployed 24 firefighters with 9 vehicles to the scene, along with volunteers. From the air, 3 aircraft and 1 helicopter are assisting the operation. Authorities are on heightened alert, with the fire service and other agencies coordinating the response on the ground.
- Wildfire breaks out in low vegetation at Imeros, Rhodope
- 112 alert sent ordering evacuation of Ambelakia and Profitis Ilias toward Maroneia
- 24 firefighters with 9 vehicles, volunteers, 3 aircraft and 1 helicopter deployed
Fire risk level
Rhodope was classified on Wednesday, 12 August 2026 at risk category 4, described as very high fire risk, according to the daily fire risk forecast map. This classification placed the region among areas of Greece facing the most severe fire danger on that date. The authorities remain on increased alert given the very high risk level and the active fire in Imeros.
