Wildfire prompts evacuations near Greece's second-largest city

A wildfire that started in a ravine north of Thessaloniki on Saturday evening spread quickly through brush toward the plains, prompting officials to order evacuations in three suburbs. Text alerts directed residents of Anthoupoli, Filothei, and Galini to leave their homes.

Officials also moved 157 people from a nearby facility for individuals with special needs, sheltering about 120 in a gym and the remainder in a psychiatric hospital.

Firefighting response Around 115 firefighters and 38 fire engines worked through the night with support from volunteers. Firefighting planes operated briefly before darkness halted their use. A 76-year-old man was arrested near midnight on suspicion of starting the fire. Officials said he appeared not to be sober at the time.

Additional fires and conditions Residents in parts of Thessaloniki reported seeing flames and hearing explosions from burning businesses. A heavy smoke cloud covered several suburbs and western sections of the city. Strong local winds complicated containment efforts. Other fires burned the same evening on the Halkidiki Peninsula and near the city of Kilkis.