Greece wildfires: mass evacuations as blaze rages near Ierapetra, Crete

The blaze has been raging since Wednesday and fire crews say the conditions are creating new flare-ups, making containment efforts extremely difficult.

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The blaze, which broke out on Wednesday afternoon near the village of Achlia, has spread rapidly across forested and mountainous terrain due to gale-force winds and high temperatures.

According to Greece's fire service, the fire has now split into three active fronts - in Achlia, Ferma and Skinokapsala.

Fire crews say the conditions are creating new flare-ups, making containment efforts extremely difficult.

Authorities have ordered the mass evacuation of hotels, rental rooms and homes in the Ferma municipality. The operation is underway with the support of the fire service, police and local volunteers.