Cyprus authorities have closed the Kantou exit on the Limassol-Paphos route and issued a red alert for forest fire risk for Friday as devastating damage emerges from the major wildfire, with dozens of homes destroyed in affected communities.
The village of Vouni has suffered incalculable damage, with Community Council President Matthaios Protopapas saying burnt houses “could reach 100”. One resident is being treated for serious burns at Nicosia General Hospital.
In Alassa, one house was destroyed by the major fire that erupted yesterday in semi-mountainous Limassol, according to Community Council President Xenia Constantinou.
She said great efforts were made to prevent the fire reaching the village centre, although it came very close.
“Animal pens with livestock such as poultry were burnt, as well as orchards with fruit trees around the community,” Constantinou said.
The Kantou exit has been shut to traffic, with drivers advised to use alternative routes via the Erimi or Episkopi exits. The closure comes as firefighting efforts continue, with new flare-ups reported in Koilani near residential areas and active operations at the Souni front involving aircraft.
Archaeological sites at Kourion, Apollon Ylatis and Kolossi Castle will remain closed to the public today, Thursday 24 July 2025, for precautionary reasons. The Department of Antiquities cited the suffocating atmosphere, high temperatures and risk of flare-ups as safety concerns for visitors.
The Forestry Department announced that Friday, 25 July 2025, will see forest fire risk at “red alert” level – the highest warning category. The department issued a strong appeal to the public to exercise extreme caution during outdoor activities, completely avoiding any actions that might spark fires.
“Causing fires constitutes an offence under the Forest Law and the Prevention and Suppression of Fires in the Countryside Law, carrying severe penalties,” the department warned.
A new fire broke out from a flare-up in the Vounaro area of Ypsonas, adding to concerns about ongoing fire activity across the region. Anyone spotting smoke or flames is urged to immediately contact 1407 for the Forestry Department or 112 for the Fire Service.
The army remains on standby at four designated points, ready to assist with civilian evacuations from communities, food transport, or creating firebreaks if requested by authorities.
Senior government ministers, including those responsible for Agriculture, Finance, Shipping and Justice, have gathered at the coordination center to oversee the response to the ongoing fire emergency.
The deadly Limassol fire that has destroyed entire communities since it started on Wednesday afternoon, is suspected to be the result of arson, according to Fire Service officials.