Deadly Cyprus Wildfire Contained
After days of battling intense heat, drought, and strong winds, Cypriot authorities have brought a deadly wildfire under control. The blaze claimed two lives near Limassol, injured several others, and scorched 125 square kilometres, making it one of the most destructive in the country’s history. Police are probing possible arson. ©ETIENNE TORBEY / AFP

The Lebanese Army took part in the efforts led by the Cypriot authorities to contain the fire.

Cypriot authorities said Friday they had contained a devastating wildfire that claimed two lives and destroyed scores of homes on the Mediterranean island.

Fire service chief Nikos Logginos described Friday's situation as "very, very good," after small flare-ups overnight.

Logginos said that the three-day fire has been contained, but firefighters remained on alert for any flare-ups.

"Firefighting forces will be needed in the coming days. Temperatures are extremely high, humidity is low and the terrain in the affected area is challenging," he added.

The Lebanese Army took part in the efforts led by the Cypriot authorities to contain the fire.

“Two military helicopters departed from Beirut Air Base this morning to assist in firefighting efforts in Cyprus. The operation is being conducted in coordination between the Lebanese Army Command and the Cypriot authorities,” announced the Army in a statement.

The fire, one of the worst in Cypriot history, burned around 125 square kilometers (50 square miles) of mountainous terrain, according to the Cyprus University of Technology.

The Mediterranean island has been gripped by a multi-year drought, while a heatwave this week sent temperatures soaring to 44C and strong winds fanned the flames.

An elderly couple, trying to escape the wildfire outside Cyprus's second city of Limassol, died in their car.

Health authorities said seven victims were being treated in hospital, with two in a serious but not life-threatening condition.

Local authorities reported that, so far, 72 residential homes have been damaged, with 43 completely destroyed.

Police are investigating evidence that the fire may have been started deliberately.

By AFP

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