Wildfires Force Thousands of Tourists to Evacuate Kos Island

Thousands of holidaymakers, including tourists from Wales, were evacuated to parks and stadiums on Kos Island as wildfires swept through the area. Chaotic conditions and lack of information marred the evacuation process, with over 2,000 people temporarily housed in limited facilities before returning to their accommodations the next day.

Thousands of Tourists Evacuated Due to Wildfires on Kos Island

Thousands of holidaymakers, including many from Wales, spent Monday night on parks and football stadiums on the Greek island of Kos as wildfires raged through the area. On the afternoon of July 1, the fires led to the evacuation of several hotels, with over 100 firefighters tackling the blaze.

Evacuees described the situation as chaotic, with a lack of information and adequate facilities. Approximately 2,000 people were relocated to a football stadium, which only had two toilets that eventually stopped working. The Greek Army and locals provided tents and supplies.

Tourist Rebecca reported that people were "hysterical" and scrambling to escape using cars, buses, and bikes. Alicia Williams, another tourist, noted that rescue helicopters and planes were seen scooping water from the sea.

Deputy Governor Christos Efstratiou announced that the wildfire had subsided by the morning, allowing most evacuees to return to their accommodations. Still, access to the Kardamena area remains restricted.

Holiday companies Jet2 and easyJet advised travelers to monitor their emails for updates on flight disruptions due to the fires and thunderstorms in the Mediterranean.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned of a dangerous summer ahead for wildfires, citing exceptional drought and strong winds. Despite the swift response, the experience left many tourists in distress due to poor communication and harsh overnight conditions.