Cyprus Wildfires Kill Two, Evacuate Dozens Near Limassol

Cyprus is battling one of its most severe wildfires in decades, with flames consuming over 38 square miles near Limassol amid a record heatwave reaching temperatures of up to 44°C. The fire, driven by bone-dry conditions and strong winds, forced the evacuation of more than a dozen villages and destroyed numerous homes, including at least 20 in the village of Lofou. Tragically, two people were found dead inside a burnt vehicle on a main road linking the affected areas, with identification efforts ongoing. Over 250 firefighters, 75 vehicles, and 14 aircraft—including international assistance from Jordan, Spain, Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, and the UK—are actively engaged in containment efforts, focusing on flare-ups in rugged terrain. Authorities are investigating the possibility of arson, with two arrests reported, while the European Union has activated its civil protection mechanism to support the response. The ongoing blaze has also disrupted tourism and caused power outages, adding to the challenges faced by local communities during this intense heatwave.