Fire breaks out in Salamina – 112 emergency alert orders evacuation of two areas as explosions are heard

A fire broke out in low vegetation and piles of rubbish in the Elliniko area of Salamina, near the naval base.

The Fire Service Operations Centre was notified of the incident at approximately 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday.

A total of 24 firefighters with 10 vehicles were deployed to tackle the blaze.

One helicopter and three aircraft were also mobilised for aerial firefighting operations.

The Municipality of Salamina was called in to assist the Fire Service by providing water tankers.

Today, the area is at high risk of wildfire outbreaks.

Throughout the incident, the National Coordination Centre for Operations and Crisis Management has been receiving a continuous live feed from a drone equipped with thermal and optical cameras.

The Piraeus Arson Crimes Investigation Unit was also deployed to investigate the cause of the fire.

A 112 emergency alert was sent ordering the evacuation of two areas. “If you are in the areas of Ano Vasilika and Nea Salamina (Bizani), evacuate towards Akti Karaiskaki. Follow the instructions of the authorities,” the message said.

The fire is burning in a quarry where rubbish has accumulated, with tyres, plastics and other waste also on fire, while, according to reports, explosions can be heard.

Traffic restrictions in Paloukia, Salamina
The competent authorities have suspended vehicle traffic on Bizaniou Street, in the Paloukia area of Salamina, due to the fire.

Traffic has been halted from the junction with Georgiou Papandreou Street, while drivers are being asked to follow police instructions and use alternative routes.