A fierce wildfire tore through the village of Souni in Cyprus on Thursday, July 24, 2025, with flames reaching dangerously close to homes. AP
A huge wildfire has caused devastation across Cyprus. The flames have already burned over 120 square kilometres of forest and hilly land. Two people died after being trapped in a car. Their bodies were discovered on the Monagri-Alassa road. The fire started around noon on Wednesday.
Foreign Help Arrives
Several countries are sending aircraft and emergency teams to help. Four planes from Jordan and two helicopters from Egypt are already in Cyprus. Planes from Israel, Lebanon, and Spain are also on the way. Greece is sending 26 top firefighters.
Tough Conditions for Firefighters
Strong winds, extreme heat, and dry weather made the fire worse. Firefighters had a hard time controlling the flames. More than 250 firefighters, 75 fire engines, and 14 aircraft are on the ground. Some areas remain too dangerous due to the steep hills and fast-moving fire.
Homes and Villages Hit
Many homes have been destroyed. At least 14 villages were evacuated, including Lofou, where 20 houses burned down. Over 100 people are now staying in emergency shelters. People had to flee their homes quickly, with dogs being rescued from shelters amid the chaos.
Villagers Share Their Pain
Antonis Christou, a 67-year-old from Kantou, said the fire swept through the valley near his home.
“I cried, honestly I cried because the world was on fire,” he shared. He added that fire trucks arrived just in time to save the village.
Government Responds
Officials promised to help victims rebuild their lives. Support will be given to those who lost homes and farms. Health workers are treating seven people for burns and smoke exposure in three hospitals.
Suspected Arson
Police believe arson may have caused the fire. An investigation is ongoing. So far, they haven’t arrested anyone. Authorities are urging people to stay away from fire-hit areas. Roads remain closed to affected villages.
Egypt Offers More Aid
Egypt's Petroleum Minister, visiting Cyprus, announced that two special helicopters will join the firefighting mission. He said this shows Egypt’s strong friendship with Cyprus.
Red Cross Steps In
Relief groups like the Red Cross are helping those who lost everything. They are giving food, shelter, and supplies to families in need.
Evacuations Continue
Officials have asked all campers in the Troodos mountains to leave. The fire remains unpredictable, with flare-ups still happening in several spots.
Leaders Under Pressure
Some residents say fire crews were slow to respond. But government officials say they acted quickly and followed all proper steps. The situation remains serious as crews continue to battle the blaze.
