Limassol Fire: "Over 1,600 Homes Affected - No Delay in Aircraft Response"

Fire Chief Nikos Logginos responded to the Community Leader regarding the extinguishing of the fire in Vouni village, assuring that the Fire Service had access to water from tankers and hydrants.

In a statement to CYNEWS, Mr. Logginos responded to Community Leader Matthaios Protopapas, who stated that fire trucks could not be supplied with water due to the lack of electricity to operate the turbine. Mr. Logginos stressed that he explained the Fire Service's actions to the Community Leader during a meeting at the presidential residence.

Regarding criticisms of delays in the response of aerial means, Mr. Logginos stated that the flights of the aircraft are recorded. He said that initially two aircraft were operating on a fire in Anagyia in the Nicosia district, and as soon as the fire in Limassol became known, two more took off. He said instructions were given and Ikaros II was activated.

Regarding claims of a lack of planning despite warnings from the Meteorological Service about high temperatures and strong winds, the Fire Chief stated that he received data on high temperatures, low humidity and winds of approximately seven Beaufort in mountainous Limassol. He contacted the aircraft base and requested patrols from the morning, as well as from the Limassol district to send out patrols.

Mr. Logginos reiterated that the Fire Service responded immediately and that its resources are not inexhaustible. He stated that twenty vehicles responded and over 1,600 homes were affected, while the service helped evacuate residents.