Crete wildfires: Thousands forced to flee Rethymno as fire threatens tourist resorts

The wildfire currently burning in the region erupted on Wednesday. 13:15, Thu, Jul 30, 2026 Updated: 13:56, Thu, Jul 30, 2026 A fire burns in Krya Vrysi, Rethymno, Crete (Image: NIKOS CHALKIADAKIS/EPA/Shutterstock)Thousands of people have been forced to leave a popular European holiday hotspot after being threatened by fast-moving wildfires. Around 8,000 people were evacuated overnight in Rethymno, a city on the north coast of the Greek island of Crete, where gusts have reached nearly 80mph.The wildfire currently burning in the Rethymno region of western Crete erupted on Wednesday and has rapidly spread across a wide area, fuelled by dry conditions and strong winds. Authorities believe the blaze has already destroyed several homes, as well as significant areas of agricultural land, causing widespread damage to local communities. It is regarded as one of the largest active wildfires on the island, with the fire front stretching for more than nine miles. Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our...