A massive fire on the island of Chios has forced the evacuation of 16 settlements, and authorities suspect it was deliberately set.

The vegetation fires on the island of Chios broke out in three simultaneous outbreaks, raising suspicions of arson. Nearly 190 firefighters are battling the blaze fueled by strong winds, which destroyed orchards, houses and infrastructure. The Greek authorities have launched an investigation and the civil protection minister has promised severe penalties for those responsible. In the past 48 hours, Greece has recorded 110 fires, with damage in 2023 significantly above the average of previous years.