Wildfire breaks out on Samothrace, 112 alert issued and aerial assets deployed amid strong winds
A wildfire broke out in low vegetation at Xyropotamos on the Greek island of Samothrace on the afternoon of 15 August 2026, prompting a 112 emergency alert and the deployment of 10 firefighters, 4 aerial assets and municipal water tankers amid strong winds.
Outbreak at Xyropotamos
A fire broke out in low vegetation at Xyropotamos on the island of Samothrace on the afternoon of Saturday, 15 August 2026. The fire brigade was alerted at approximately 18:00, according to one source. The fire is burning in low vegetation, the fire service said.
- Fire breaks out in low vegetation at Xyropotamos, Samothrace; fire brigade alerted
- 112 emergency message issued telling residents to be on standby
Response forces deployed
For the firefighting operation, 10 firefighters with 5 vehicles were dispatched to the scene, along with volunteers. Aerial support consists of 1 helicopter and 3 aircraft. Water tankers from the Municipality of Samothrace are also assisting in the effort.
112 emergency alert
At 18:27, a 112 emergency message was issued to people in the wider area of the fire, instructing them to be on standby. One source reported that residents of the Xyropotamos area received the 112 message shortly after 18:30, telling them to remain on alert.
Strong winds and investigation
Strong winds are blowing in the area, which are hampering the work of the firefighting forces. To investigate the causes of the fire, the Arson Investigation Team of the Evros Fire Service has been mobilised.
