**Lit Coals Suspected as Cause of Limassol Wildfire**
**Limassol, Cyprus – August 3, 2026** – A wildfire erupted early Monday morning in the Prasteio Kellakiou area of the Limassol district, with initial investigations suggesting that lit coals discarded into a plastic rubbish bin may have ignited the blaze. The fire broke out at approximately 3 AM, prompting a swift response from local emergency services.
According to Glafkos Kyriakou, a spokesman for the Forestry Department, the fire was tackled by a combined effort of fifty personnel from the Fire Service, the Forestry Department, and various volunteer groups. The Fire Service deployed five firefighting vehicles, while the Forestry Department contributed eight vehicles to the operation. Additionally, aerial support was provided through preventive water drops to help control the flames.
The Kitasweather Volunteer Fire Group also played a significant role in the firefighting efforts, sending 15 volunteers along with three mobile units and one fire truck to the scene. Their timely response was crucial in managing the situation, especially given the dry conditions prevailing in the area.
Authorities activated the ASTRAPI emergency plan in response to the fire, which is designed to coordinate resources and personnel during such incidents. The CY Alert system was later used to inform local residents that firefighters had successfully extinguished the fire. However, emergency services remain on standby, prepared to respond should the fire reignite.
The wildfire burned approximately two hectares of wild vegetation before being brought under control. The Kitasweather page, which monitors weather conditions and environmental changes, was the first to report on the incident, sharing images captured from one of its cameras situated near the fire's origin.
As the region continues to experience high temperatures, with recent reports indicating that temperatures have reached 40 degrees Celsius, concerns about wildfires have prompted local authorities to boost patrols due to fears of arson. This wildfire is among several recent incidents, as the Fire Service has dealt with five blazes in the area over the past few days.
The Limassol district, known for its natural beauty, is particularly vulnerable to wildfires during the summer months when conditions are dry and hot. Local officials are urging residents to exercise caution, especially regarding the disposal of lit materials, to prevent further incidents.
In light of these events, community leaders and environmental organizations are emphasizing the importance of fire safety awareness and the need for collective responsibility in protecting Cyprus's natural landscapes. The recent wildfire serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks associated with wildfires in the region.
As investigations continue into the cause of the blaze, authorities are encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity that could lead to similar incidents in the future. The safety of residents and the preservation of the environment remain top priorities for local officials as they navigate the challenges posed by the summer heat and wildfire risks.