by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 11:15 AM ET, Mon July 7, 2025
All tourists are safe following a large wildfire in the city of Ierapetra in Crete, Greece, according to Andreas Fiorentinos, the Secretary General from the Greek National Tourism Organization.
The GNTO reports that the wildfire is now under control following several days of the blaze, and “all vacationers, hotels, and surrounding areas are safe.” According to the GNTO, “Precautionary measures were taken immediately, and tourists in the affected areas were temporarily relocated and hosted in other parts of Crete.”
Some residents in unaffected areas generously offered to host travelers impacted by the wildfire.
“We remain on high alert to protect the health and safety of our visitors,” said Fiorentinos. “The swift mobilization of all relevant authorities once again proved that Greece has effective emergency response mechanisms, even under challenging conditions.”
“I sincerely thank the local authorities, hoteliers, and the people of Crete for their solidarity and unwavering support for our guests. Ensuring the safety of lives, property, and the natural environment is our top priority, and we continue our efforts to ensure visitors enjoy an uninterrupted stay with the high standard of hospitality that defines our country.”
According to Reuters, thousands were evacuated late last week as Crete endured gale force winds that exacerbated wildfires that burned forests and olive groves. At least 3,500 tourists were evacuated from Ierapetra last week, but have since been returned to their original lodgings. Temperatures reached over 100 degrees Fahrenheit this past week.
The entire country of Greece, as well as the wider Mediterranean world, is battling a fierce summer wildfire season. According to Al Jazeera, countries from France to Syria are combating wildfires, made worse by strong winds and the intense heat waves that have become the norm during the traditionally dry Mediterranean summers.
Crete, and Greece as a whole, is still safe to visit, though travelers heading there in the summer should take precaution to monitor local weather and news reports, and follow local emergency alerts should they need to evacuate an area where there is a wildfire.
The U.S. Department of State issued an alert about the increased risk of wildfires in Greece this June, telling travelers to check the Greek Daily Fire Risk Map and to remain vigilant. Travelers should also carry their travel documents with them wherever they go and ensure they know the Fire Service and Emergency Communications Service for assistance. Greece remains at the lowest risk level.
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