Wildfire in Lagadas, Thessaloniki: 25 firefighters, 2 aircraft deployed as area under very high risk
A wildfire broke out in low vegetation near Kalamoto, Lagadas, on Monday afternoon. No homes or infrastructure are currently threatened, but the area is under very high fire risk.
Fire outbreak and immediate response
At around 17:30 local time on Monday, 13 July 2026, a wildfire ignited in low vegetation close to the local community of Kalamoto in the Lagadas municipality, east of Thessaloniki. The fire was first reported by a local resident shortly before the alarm. The Fire Service Operations Centre received the alert and dispatched 25 firefighters, one pedestrian team from the 2nd EMODE, and seven fire engines. Two aircraft were also scrambled to drop water. Water tankers from the Lagadas municipal authority joined the effort. The coordinated mobilisation reflected the elevated fire danger rating for the area and pre-positioning of resources. The pedestrian team from the 2nd EMODE specialises in forest firefighting and can operate in rough terrain.
No immediate threat to homes or infrastructure
According to the Fire Service, the fire is currently spreading away from residential areas and infrastructure. This separation has prevented any need for evacuations. The flames are burning through low vegetation, likely grass and shrubs, which is easier to control than forest fires. Firefighters are using the buffer to construct firebreaks and contain the perimeter. The absence of immediate threat allows crews to work without the pressure of defending structures. No injuries have been reported and property risk is minimal at this stage. The water tankers from the municipality are critical for refilling engines in rural areas where hydrants are scarce.
Very high fire risk rating
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection had classified the Lagadas area as category 4 (very high fire risk) on its daily fire danger map. Category 4 out of 5 indicates conditions conducive to rapid fire spread. Such ratings prompt emergency managers to pre-deploy aerial resources and maintain readiness. The commitment of two aircraft within minutes of the alarm reflects this proactive stance. The map is a key tool for allocating resources across Greece during the summer fire season, and today's rating justified the robust initial response. The risk map is updated daily, incorporating weather data and vegetation dryness.
Arson investigation
The Investigative Team for Arson Crimes of Thessaloniki is travelling to the site. This specialised unit examines wildfire origins to determine if they were caused by accident, negligence, or criminal intent. Investigators will collect physical evidence and interview witnesses. The deployment of this team is standard protocol for any wildfire in Greece. The findings will help authorities decide if further legal action is warranted and may influence prevention strategies. Previous investigations in the region have identified arson and negligent behaviour as causes in some cases, but no pattern is yet established for this fire.
Ongoing monitoring
As of the latest reports, the fire remains active but the Fire Service has not requested additional resources. The situation is being monitored closely and further updates are expected later this evening.
