A massive wildfire near the Cypriot port city of Limassol has been brought under control after days of burning. Authorities report that approximately 120 square kilometres have been ravaged by the flames.
The Cyprus Times states that emergency services are conducting ground and aerial checks to ensure the fire does not reignite.
The blaze claimed the lives of two people, who died in their car when they were surrounded by the flames on Wednesday night into Thursday. Dozens of others were hospitalised, homes were destroyed, and several animals were killed.
Teams from the Ministry of Agriculture are assessing the damage, and affected farmers can apply for assistance.
The government faces heavy criticism for its handling of the disaster. In June, a spokesperson had assured the public that the government was more prepared than ever for wildfires. Now, political parties are blaming each other for a “complete lack of planning and coordination.”
