Cyprus Fires: Dozens Hospitalized, Villages Without Power

Cyprus Fires: Dozens Hospitalized, Villages Without Power

Cyprus Grapples with Devastating Blaze

Cyprus continues to battle a massive wildfire in the Limassol district, which has triggered record-breaking heat, hospitalizations, major infrastructure damage, and extensive emergency response measures.

Meteorological authorities recorded extreme temperatures of 58 to 59°C in the Kouris area at the peak of the firestorm, while wind gusts of up to 6 Beaufort further fueled the flames. Although winds weakened slightly by morning, forecasters warned of renewed gusts later in the day, especially in western Cyprus.

Health Emergency: Burn Victims and Dozens Treated

According to state health services spokesperson Charalambos Charilaou, two individuals with severe burns were transferred to the Nicosia General Hospital's burns unit in serious, but not critical, condition. Limassol General Hospital treated 16 individuals for respiratory issues, burns, and injuries, while another 40 were assessed at an emergency first aid station in Erimi, which remains operational for the public.

Widespread Power Outages and Structural Damage

The fire has knocked out electricity in 16 villages across the mountainous and semi-mountainous areas of Limassol, including Agios Ambrosios, Alassa, Kivides, Kolossi, Souni, and Zanakia. The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) says only 15% of the affected area has been assessed so far, with damage estimates pending until the fire is fully extinguished. Emergency crews and materials have been dispatched from across the island, but the remote and rugged terrain poses major obstacles to repair efforts.

EAC spokesperson Christina Papadopoulou urged citizens not to approach or touch downed lines or damaged equipment, emphasizing that safety assessments must precede any reconnection work.

>>In Flames: 14 Striking Images from the Wildfire in Limassol<<

Traffic Disruptions and Safety Warnings

Police have announced road closures around key affected areas, including routes between Trimiklini, Lania, Alassa, Vouni, Agios Ambrosios, and Kivides. Congestion has also built up along the Nicosia–Limassol highway from Moni to Parekklisia due to high traffic volumes and smoke.

Authorities are urging all residents and drivers in affected areas to follow official guidance, avoid unnecessary travel, and comply with evacuation or safety protocols.

Offer of Aid from Turkish Cypriot Leader

Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar expressed condolences and announced readiness to assist with firefighting efforts. His office confirmed that an offer of equipment, personnel, and technical support was conveyed via the United Nations and the island’s bicommunal technical committee.

“I hope this disaster can be brought under control as soon as possible,” Tatar stated, noting that his side is monitoring the developments closely.

Firefighting crews continue their operations by land and air, with reinforcements from other districts and international partners.

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