Major forest fire in southern Rhodes finally dies out

The major fire that broke out in southern Rhodes on Saturday has finally been extinguished after burning through 15,000 to 25,000 acres of woodland and grassland, according to the first, unofficial estimates.

As a precaution, the Fire Brigade decided to evacuate the villages of Apolakkia and Istrios on Sunday, as the fire was still going strong. About 150 firefighters and over 30 vehicles, including helicopters and water bombers remain on alert.

According to the Deputy Mayor of Rhodes Agapiotos Pallas, a farmer has admitted to authorities that the fire was caused by a spark from his harvester. Mr. Pallas noted that government officials will soon begin to document and asses the damages caused by the fire.

The Minister of Agricultural Development Evangelos Apostolou and the President of the Greek Agricultural Insurance Organization (ELGA) Fanis Kourempes will visit the island on Tuesday.