Newsroom
Just hours after firefighters brought a major wildfire under control in the Larnaca district, emergency crews were called to a new fire in Mathiatis, keeping authorities on high alert during another dangerous summer day.
The latest blaze broke out on Monday evening at an illegal dumpsite in Mathiatis, prompting the Forestry Department to immediately dispatch firefighting teams to the scene.
The new incident came after a large wildfire that started shortly after midday at the Kalo Chorio firing range in Larnaca district was finally brought under control later in the evening.
The fire, which authorities said was sparked during a National Guard live-fire exercise, quickly spread beyond the military range and reached the nearby community of Agia Anna. Residents of Agia Anna were ordered to evacuate, while evacuation alerts were also sent to people living in Psevdas as a precaution.
At the height of the emergency, firefighters battled the flames with strong ground forces supported by 11 firefighting aircraft and one coordination aircraft, as the blaze threatened nearby communities.
Speaking after the fire, Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas said responsibility for the firing range lies with the 70th Engineer Battalion and confirmed he had ordered an investigation into the incident.
According to the minister, the fire was caused during the destruction of RPG ammunition.
He added that if the investigation identifies any political responsibility, it will be assumed.
Although the Kalo Chorio fire has been contained, firefighting crews will remain in the area overnight to monitor the perimeter and guard against flare-ups, Forestry Department Director Savvas Iezekiel said.
The back-to-back fires come as Cyprus continues to face high wildfire danger following weeks of scorching temperatures and dry conditions. Forecasters are warning that another spell of extreme heat is expected later this week and into next week, increasing the risk of new fires across the island.
Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid activities that could spark fires and to report smoke or flames immediately.
