Wildfire erupts in Halkidiki's Paradise area, 18 firefighters deployed with drones monitoring
A forest fire started Friday afternoon near Marmaras in Halkidiki, Greece. Ground forces including 18 firefighters with a pedestrian unit and five vehicles are operating, while drone surveillance provides real-time thermal and optical images to fire command.
Outbreak and location
A wildfire broke out around 14:50 on Friday, 24 July 2026, in a forested area known as "Paradise" near Marmaras in Halkidiki, northern Greece. The exact time of ignition was reported between 14:50 and 15:00 by local emergency services. The fire immediately triggered an alert and rapid mobilization of ground forces. The area is characterized by dense vegetation and, at the time, was experiencing intense lightning activity, according to multiple reports.
Firefighting response
A total of 18 firefighters from the Hellenic Fire Service were dispatched to the scene, accompanied by one pedestrian unit from the 5th Special Unit for Forest Operations (EMODE) and five fire engines. The team initiated suppression efforts promptly after arrival. No aerial resources were initially reported, with the operation relying entirely on ground personnel in the early stages. The fire is burning in a forested zone, raising concerns due to the region's dry summer conditions.
Arson investigation launched
The Arson Crime Investigation Unit of Halkidiki was activated soon after the blaze was reported. Its deployment aims to determine the cause of the fire, with investigators working alongside firefighting operations. While lightning activity is cited as a possible natural cause, the activation of the specialized arson unit is a standard procedure for any fire in Greece, especially those near populated or tourist areas. No official statement on the cause had been released as of early afternoon.
- Wildfire breaks out in forested area 'Paradise', near Marmaras, Halkidiki.
- 18 firefighters, one pedestrian unit (5th EMODE), and 5 vehicles deployed to the scene.
- Arson Crime Investigation Unit of Halkidiki activated to examine causes.
- ESKEDIK begins receiving continuous optical and thermal drone footage.
Technological surveillance
Throughout the incident, the National Coordination Center for Operations and Crisis Management (ESKEDIK) has been receiving a continuous live feed from a drone equipped with both optical and thermal cameras. The imagery is being used to monitor the fire's perimeter and intensity in real time, aiding tactical decisions on the ground. The use of drone technology has become a common tool in Greek wildfire management, providing critical situational awareness without risking additional personnel.
Current status and outlook
There are no reports of injuries, evacuations, or structural damage at this stage. The fire is active but limited to a forested area. The local fire service and the arson investigation unit remain on site. Further updates are expected as the situation develops throughout the afternoon.
