Athens, 13 August 2026 (dpa/MIA) - A large wildfire was raging across the densely forested western peninsula of Halkidiki in northern Greece on Thursday, with authorities ordering the evacuation of residents and holidaymakers in the resort of Siviri and surrounding villages via SMS through an emergency warning system.

The coastguard and private individuals used their boats to rescue large numbers of tourists from the endangered coastal area and bring them to safety by sea, local media reported.

Nine firefighting aircraft and several helicopters are taking part in operations to battle the flames, a fire service spokeswoman said. Dense clouds of smoke were visible for kilometres, according to eyewitnesses.

Authorities urged residents and tourists to follow evacuation instructions.

MIA file photo