Deadly Limassol Fire 2025: Cigarette Butts the Cause, Report Finds

According to a report by American AFT experts, two cigarette butts caused the deadly fire in mountainous Limassol on July 23 and 24, 2025. The report was released by the Government today.

The investigation demonstrates the intensity of the fire's spread and its cause. Indicatively, 17 minutes after the initial outbreak, the fire had spread to 1.5 hectares. In 29 minutes, it had reached 2 hectares and had penetrated the settlement of Malia.

The topography and strong winds contributed to the rapid spread, reaching 60-63 meters per minute. Environmental conditions (39°C, 19% humidity, drought, winds up to 9 Beaufort) increased the likelihood of ignition.

The ignition point was located at the edge of the Malia–Arsos road, where cigarette butts were found. The cause was attributed to reckless cigarette disposal.

The risk of fire in Cyprus is exacerbated by the island's Mediterranean climate and topography.