Efforts to contain the massive wildfire in Limassol, Cyprus, are showing signs of success, though the scale of destruction remains devastating. The blaze, which has scorched over 120 square kilometers of land and claimed two lives, has now entered its third day. Thick smoke from the fire has reached as far as the Lebanese coast.
According to local reports, the situation on the ground has significantly improved. Overnight flare-ups were swiftly brought under control, and no active fire fronts remain. Aerial firefighting operations are expected to continue throughout the day.
Hopes for containment rose after successful nighttime water drops by two Israeli C-130 aircraft in the mountainous areas of Limassol. Additional aerial support is arriving from Spain and Lebanon, and 26 forest firefighters from Greece have joined the efforts on the ground.
Arson Investigation Underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with initial suspicions pointing to arson. Police have begun collecting statements from individuals who witnessed the outbreak near the community of Malia in the Limassol mountains. One citizen who reportedly saw the fire start has already given testimony. Firefighters who responded to the first emergency call are also being interviewed.
There is speculation that the fire may have been sparked by activity at an illegal landfill site, but investigations are ongoing. Meanwhile, DNA testing is being conducted to identify the two victims of the blaze.
An emergency session of the Cypriot Parliament is scheduled for August 5 to address the fallout from the disaster and examine the broader implications of the deadly wildfire.