A massive wildfire that broke out northwest of the city of Limassol, Cyprus, has claimed the lives of two people and injured at least 23 others. The victims were discovered in a burned-out vehicle after reportedly becoming trapped by flames while driving toward Limassol. According to Phileleftheros newspaper, two of the injured are in serious condition.

The fire has caused extensive damage across the Limassol district, particularly affecting the villages of Vouni, Alassa, Souni, and Koilani. Over 100 homes have been destroyed, and more than 100 residents have taken refuge in temporary shelters. At least 14 settlements have been evacuated, and 16 communities have experienced power outages.

Massive wildfires rage in Limassol Valley, Cyprus, amid 45°C heatwave. Footage shows rugged terrain and active fire fronts. Satellite hotspots detected, @CopernicusEMS burned areas will go live once availible. #Limassol #Paphos #Cyprus pic.twitter.com/GYEsSmXUcr

— FireMap.live 🔥🌎 (@disaster_db) July 23, 2025

Local authorities have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, with firefighting aircraft arriving from Spain and Jordan also pledging assistance. More than 250 firefighters, supported by aircraft and British base forces, are working to control persistent flare-ups amid extremely dry conditions.

Ongoing heatwave and climate factors

Temperatures on the island soared to 43°C (109.4°F) on Wednesday and were expected to reach 44°C the following day, according to Greek media. Greek President Nikos Christodoulides visited the affected areas in Limassol to assess the situation.

The intense heat, combined with a prolonged drought and low water reservoir levels, has significantly hindered firefighting efforts. Authorities have closed archaeological sites near the fire zone due to safety concerns.

Cyprus - huge fires out of control with strong winds and 45C predicted tomorrow!

Several villages evacuated and many homes under serious threat.

Any help from our neighbours needed urgently. pic.twitter.com/m9f1rjqMt8

— Andreas Adamides (@AndreasAdamides) July 23, 2025

The wildfire in Cyprus is part of a broader crisis affecting southern Europe. As of July 2025, wildfires have burned more than 230,000 hectares across the continent, more than twice the 19-year average. Severe fires have also been reported in Greece, France, Spain, and the Balkans.