Greece: Wildfire near Thessaloniki forces evacuations

A wildfire near Thessaloniki forced evacuations in three suburbs and sent smoke across parts of Greece’s second-largest city.

Residents of Anthoupoli, Filothei and Galini were told to leave after the fire broke out on Saturday evening in a ravine north of the city. Several businesses were damaged, but homes were not hit, according to the fire service.

A facility for people with special needs was also evacuated. Officials said 157 people were moved from the site, most of them to a gym.

More than 115 firefighters, 38 engines and volunteers were deployed. Strong winds made the fire harder to contain, and aircraft could not operate after dark.

A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of starting the fire.