Five aircraft deployed to fight fire in Arsos near Limassol

A fire broke out in the village of Arsos in the Limassol district, burning dry grass, wild vegetation and trees. Five aircraft have been deployed to fight the blaze, the Cyprus Fire Service reported.

Fire Service representative Andreas Kettis said that three fire engines from rural units in Limassol and three rented bulldozers had been sent to the scene. The Department of Forests, the Game and Fauna Service and organised groups of volunteers have joined the operation.

Four aircraft were initially sent into the air, and their number was later increased to five. Strong winds are complicating the operation, as they could cause the fire to spread further. The operation is being led by the fire chief from the Operations Coordination Centre.

Because equipment and personnel were redeployed to the scene of the fire, the service ordered personnel to return to duty to maintain coverage in Limassol. Civil Defence has been notified that additional forces are being deployed.

The Fire Service has not reported any threat to residential buildings or any injuries.