Hotels evacuated in major forest fire on Greek island of Samos

A forest area on the Greek island of Samos is on fire. Dozens of firefighters, three helicopters and three firefighting planes were deployed to fight the fire.

So far, the fire did not pose a threat to surrounding homes, but two hotels and several homes have been evacuated as a precaution.

The fire started around noon in a nature reserve next to the village of Kokkari. A spokesperson for the fire service tells the Greek public broadcaster ARE that the fire is difficult to fight, but that they will continue all night. By nightfall, helicopters and planes had to stop extinguishing the fire.

Samos is a popular holiday destination, also for Dutch tourists. Dozens of Dutch people were also evacuated from the hotels.

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