Elafonisos is a lovely little island just opposite Neapoli, in Lakonia Peloponnese. This magical place has always boasted turquoise waters, long sandy beaches and some of the finest landscapes in the entire Mediterranean. And in August 2019 a great fire has unfortunately burned over the spectacular wealth of flora and fauna on the island.
The camping site at Simos beach and other facilities have been evacuated, in order to protect the nature enthusiasts that have flocked the islet. Fire has started over nothing, without any arson or other hostile cause proved so far. It is true that Greece had been declared in a state of emergency, due to the fierce weather conditions in early August. Having reached 40 degrees Celsius, the temperature along with the strong winds, have both contributed to the Alert Status/Category 5 regarding fire in the country.
Besides Elafonisos, Natura 2000 in Evia island has been severely affected over the same days. A nature reserve on the island of Evia north of Athens caught fire, leading to the evacuation of four villages and a monastery. Luckily, no casualties have been reported. The heroic attempts of firefighters during all this time have been praised by the Government and the society as a whole.
