Travel advice for Cyprus amid raging wildfires in 40°C heat
Wildfires have broken out in Cyprus on Sunday amid soaring temperatures of 40°C this summer.
Flames began raging in the early hours of this morning in the Apesia area, outside of the capital Limassol.
Five planes dispersing water have been drafted in to deal with the incident, along with three fire trucks.
Local media reported that the flames are currently burning wild vegetation and dry trees.
Fire crews on the ground have been managing to keep it away from spreading to isolated homes in the area.
At least 20 homes near the Apesia and Korfi area have been evacuated as flames have spread dangerously close since this morning.
Authorities insist this is all done as a prevention, adding that the outlook is good, as the immediate support of the aircraft has make a huge difference in ground forces efforts, helping to tame the wildfire.
A combination of hot, dry conditions and strong winds are fuelling the spread of fires in Cyprus.
Like Greece, the neighbouring Mediterranean island nation has been battling dangerous wildfires this season amid the extreme heat.
The incident in Apesia comes just days after a wildfire broke out in the Paphos district village of Pelathousa, caused by broken glass.
Paphos police Michalis Nikolaou said on Friday shards had refracted the sun’s rays, creating sparks.
Almost four million people visited the island in 2023, with this year set to be another big year for tourism.
Cyprus is generally considered to be a safe holiday destination and the Foreign Office has not updated its advice on travelling to the island despite the fires.
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