tourism

Crete Issues Island-Wide Orange Fire Alert as Wildfire Risk Peaks

Saturday, 4 July 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Crete is under an orange-level fire danger alert, meaning the risk of wildfire across the entire island is rated "very high." This applies to all four regional units: Heraklion, Lasithi, Rethymno, and Chania. Orange is the second-highest level on Greece's five-tier fire risk scale. Visitors should avoid lighting fires, barbecues, or discarding cigarettes outdoors, including in designated picnic areas and near vegetation. Do not park vehicles on dry grass, as hot exhaust pipes can ignite fires. Avoid hiking in forested or scrubland areas during peak heat hours, typically between noon and 6 pm. If you see smoke or flames, call the Greek fire service emergency number 199 immediately. Follow instructions from local authorities and be prepared to evacuate coastal or rural accommodation quickly if conditions change.

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