FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced a 45-day extension for clearing overgrown vegetation on private properties, part of efforts to prepare for what is expected to be another challenging wildfire season.
Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of public cooperation in clearing land, calling it a critical defense that proved effective in protecting homes and aiding firefighting efforts during last year’s devastating fires.
“There are more firefighters on the ground, and the number of trained volunteers continues to grow,” Mitsotakis said.
The Civil Protection and Climate Crisis Ministry confirmed that the 2025 fire season will begin on May 1 as usual.
Enhanced interagency coordination and investments in early warning systems are key components of this year’s fire response plan.
The Hellenic Fire Service reported over 8,000 wildfires during the 2024 season, resulting in seven deaths, including two firefighters. The fires destroyed 210 homes, scorched over 150,000 hectares, and caused damages exceeding 1.2 billion euros ($1.37 billion), a 35% increase from 2023.