Ogromen požar blizu Soluna v Grčiji, dve tovarni v plamenih.

A massive fire broke out near Thessaloniki, northern Greece, on Saturday, July 5, 2026, and continued to spread throughout the night. The flames engulfed two industrial factories, prompting authorities to evacuate three villages and a care center located near the city. According to reports from Ekathimerini, the fire was largely under control by Sunday morning, though it had caused significant damage and disruption. Emergency services confirmed that there were no active fronts of the fire, but efforts remained focused on preventing its resurgence.

The affected areas included the small villages of Anthoupoli, Filothei, and Galini, where residents received evacuation notices via messages. Additionally, a care facility housing 157 individuals with disabilities was also evacuated due to safety concerns. The situation escalated rapidly as the fire spread through the region, prompting a large-scale response from emergency personnel.

Over 160 firefighters were deployed to the scene in Oreokastro, a suburban area of Thessaloniki, supported by 52 fire trucks, five ground teams, two aircraft, and two helicopters. These resources worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further spread. Firefighters concentrated their efforts on the wooded area where the fire originated, focusing particularly on the two destroyed factories. Aerial operations continued throughout the day to suppress dense smoke, minimize the release of potentially harmful substances into the atmosphere, and prevent new fires from igniting.

Thick black smoke rose from the recycling plant and covered much of Thessaloniki, creating a visible haze over the city. Residents reported a strong smell of burnt plastic throughout the city on Sunday. Local officials warned citizens to follow official instructions due to the toxic nature of the smoke spreading across the metropolitan area. The industrial zone contained lubricants, petroleum products, textile processing facilities, and a recycling plant storing large quantities of plastic materials. According to local mayor Simos Daniilidis, the destruction was extensive, with dozens, if not hundreds, of explosions occurring during the night.

Authorities have identified a man suspected of starting the fire. Around midnight, firefighters announced the arrest of a 76-year-old man who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. He admitted that sparks generated by his reckless driving caused the fire. The man will be questioned by prosecutors later on Sunday. Investigators are continuing their inquiry into the incident, aiming to determine the full extent of the circumstances surrounding the fire's origin.

The fire began on Saturday evening and quickly gained momentum, leading to widespread devastation. Firefighters used aerial water delivery methods to combat the flames around the factories in Oreokastro, which is part of the northwestern suburbs of Thessaloniki. This area is known for its industrial activity, including a recycling plant and a textile factory. According to Kostas Tsingas, president of the Firefighters' Association, these facilities were among the most affected by the blaze.

The thick black smoke rising from the recycling plant covered a significant portion of Thessaloniki, affecting air quality and prompting health advisories for residents. Authorities urged people to keep windows closed and limit movement to avoid exposure to potentially toxic fumes. The situation has raised concerns about environmental impact and public health, especially given the proximity of the affected industrial sites to residential areas.

In response to the heightened risk of wildfires, several regions in Greece, including Athens, Attica, and Crete, were placed on orange alert status. High temperatures and strong winds contributed to the increased danger of additional fires breaking out. Emergency services remain on high alert, preparing for potential developments in the coming days. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and minimizing long-term damage to the environment and infrastructure.