Large wildfire breaks out in Marathias, Zakynthos
Twenty-two firefighters, aircraft, a helicopter and local volunteers are fighting a wildfire near Marathias; residents told to stay on alert.
A large forest fire broke out on the morning of August 11, 2026, in the Marathias area of the Greek island of Zakynthos. Emergency services dispatched dozens of responders as flames spread across vegetated slopes near the coast.
Firefighting crews deploy aircraft, a specialised ground unit and local volunteers
The Hellenic Fire Service reported that 22 firefighters are working at the scene, supported by aircraft, a helicopter and teams of local volunteers. A foot patrol from the 17th unit for special forest-fire operations has also been engaged in suppression efforts.
On the ground there are eight firefighting vehicles, while two fixed-wing aircraft and one helicopter are operating overhead. Municipal water tankers from the local authorities have been brought in to assist with containment.
Authorities warned residents in the threatened zone to remain ready and to strictly follow orders from emergency services. In a post on the official 112 Greece account on August 11, 2026 the message read: "Forest fire in the area Marathias of the Regional Unit Zakynthos. Stay on alert and follow the instructions of the Authorities."
Crews continued working to limit the blaze and protect populated areas; officials did not immediately report any injuries. The situation remains active and authorities said they would update the public as conditions change.
Photo: press material from the event
