51 evacuated from Preveli beach on Crete as large wildfire continues
Patrol vessel and private boats moved 51 people from Preveli beach to Agia Galini amid strong northerly winds of 8 Beaufort.
Fifty-one people were evacuated by sea from Preveli beach on southern Crete after a large wildfire that broke out yesterday and has not yet been brought under control.
The evacuees were removed with the assistance of a coast guard patrol boat and two private boats. The Hellenic Coast Guard released video footage of the operation and said the rescue took place in difficult weather conditions, with northerly winds reaching 8 Beaufort.
Coordination and current situation
The rescued were taken to the port at Agia Galini; authorities reported that all 51 people are in good health following the transfer.
The operation was carried out under the general coordination of the Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, the Single Coordinating Centre for operations and crisis management and the Coast Guard Operational Centre.
At the scene one rescue vessel and two private boats remain on duty, and a FRONTEX ship is being dispatched to the area to assist.
Photo: press material from the event
