Video: More Than 300 Evacuated by Sea as Halkidiki Wildfire Engulfs Homes in Greece

More than 300 tourists and residents were evacuated by boat after a powerful wildfire swept toward homes and beaches in Siviri, Halkidiki, on Thursday evening.

Flames Reach Homes in Siviri

Videos show towering flames and dense smoke surrounding the Greek seaside resort as the wind-driven fire burns through trees, homes and apartment balconies.

Residents and holidaymakers fled toward the shoreline while emergency crews evacuated threatened areas by land and sea.

Coast Guard Launches Sea Evacuations

Greek Coast Guard vessels, patrol boats and local fishing boats helped move more than 300 people away from the advancing flames.

Road traffic between Siviri and Kassandreia was suspended as the wildfire burned on both sides of the route.

More Than 140 Firefighters Battle Blaze

More than 140 firefighters were deployed alongside nine aircraft and seven helicopters as strong winds complicated containment efforts.

At least one firefighter was injured during the emergency response.

Strong Winds Drive Fire Toward Beaches

Dangerous winds rapidly pushed the flames through dry vegetation and toward populated coastal areas during Greece’s peak tourist season.

Authorities urged residents and visitors to follow evacuation orders and avoid roads needed by firefighters and emergency vehicles.