Wildfire subsides, surveying of damage begins

The raging fire in Paphos has subsided, according to statements made by the Minister of Agriculture following the Council of Ministers meeting.

Fire Service spokesman Andrea Kettis confirmed that the fire is now under control, with the active front near the Polemi community contained. However, suppression teams continue to work on full containment, acknowledging the risk of potential reignitions.

A Ministry of Interior team is expected to arrive in the area today to assess the damage to homes, livestock, and agricultural crops.

Kettis reported that over 250 personnel, including 50 firefighters and 8 earth movers, worked tirelessly throughout the night. While many residences suffered extensive damage, efforts successfully protected dozens of others.

Survey teams have begun documenting damage, with initial assessments focusing on the Psathi and Polemi communities. In Psathi, 14 dwellings were affected, with two completely destroyed.

Meanwhile, efforts from both local and international sources are underway to combat the blaze. Greek Canadians have joined the firefighting efforts, with additional support from forestry and fire service personnel.

In a surprising turn, cultivated fields and vineyards in the Lemona area acted as natural barriers, halting the fire's advance into the village. Despite trees in the vicinity being scorched, the vineyards remained untouched, attributed to the cleared and surrounded cultivated fields.

Despite progress in containment, authorities remain vigilant. Forestry Department spokesman George Constantinou described the situation as difficult, with sporadic reignitions challenging firefighting efforts. The goal remains to fully suppress the fire, which has already consumed several square kilometers of land.

As efforts continue, cautious optimism prevails, with officials hopeful for further progress in extinguishing the blaze and minimizing further damage.