**Title: Forestry Department Successfully Contained Fire in Stavrovouni Forest**
**Date: August 4, 2026**
The Forestry Department of Cyprus has reported a successful response to a fire that broke out in the Stavrovouni forest on Tuesday afternoon. The alarm was raised shortly after 5:00 PM, prompting immediate action from local firefighting services.
According to Glafkos Kyriakou, a spokesman for the Forestry Department, the department activated its emergency firefighting plans, known as “Astrapi” and “Hephaestus II.” These plans included the deployment of aircraft to assist in containing the blaze. Kyriakou emphasized that the fire was addressed swiftly, stating, “We got it before the hard-to-reach area,” indicating that the firefighting efforts were timely and effective.
The rapid deployment of aircraft allowed for the dropping of fire retardant, which facilitated ground crews in their efforts to extinguish the flames. The department is currently on red alert, meaning all other operational activities have been suspended to prioritize firefighting efforts. This heightened state of readiness has led to increased patrols by forestry staff, and observation points are now staffed with both forestry officers and forest firefighters to monitor the situation closely.
The fire reportedly originated during activities conducted by a beekeeper, who has acknowledged involvement in the incident. The Forestry Department is likely to investigate further to determine the specifics of the circumstances surrounding the fire's ignition.
In light of the recent fire, the Forestry Department has reiterated the importance of vigilance in forested areas, especially during the dry season when the risk of wildfires is heightened. The department's proactive measures, including the activation of firefighting plans and increased monitoring, reflect a commitment to safeguarding Cyprus's natural resources.
The aftermath of wildfires can be severe, with forest recovery potentially taking decades or even centuries, as noted by forestry officials. The department's efforts to contain the fire quickly may help mitigate long-term ecological damage.
As the situation develops, the Forestry Department continues to monitor the area and is prepared to respond to any further incidents. The community is also reminded to exercise caution and report any signs of fire immediately to prevent similar occurrences in the future.