Plakias Forums

Plakias => Plakias => Topic started by: Ali & Dave on July 07, 2006, 11:16:04 AM

Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 07, 2006, 11:16:04 AM
Well, I'm afraid disaster struck yesterday and we had a fairly major fire here.  Luckily nobody was hurt and no buildings were damaged.  However the destruction to the olive trees and the other plants is devastating.

It started up the valley by the old mill and as we were having extremely strong winds it was almost impossible to control it.  Many of the locals battered for hours trying to save their olives and we had the fire brigade down from Spili and Rethymno.

It spread down the valley then veered off towards Secret Nest burning a huge swathe behind Clio and Ariadne studios, past Aretousa, Secret Nest and up the right side of Lappa apartments.  The whole of the hillside between On the Rocks and Talos has been burnt out completely as well as much the hill up towards Selia.  

The fire brigade were fighting it all night, you could see the glows of fire all up the hillside.

The bad news is that it has kicked off again today mid-morning half way up to Selia, the hope is that as the wind is dropping they may be able to bring in the helicopter to douse it.  But it's still burning as I am writing this.
Title: FIRE
Post by: compage on July 07, 2006, 11:54:58 AM
I'm sure that forum members will wish to extend their sympathy to all the locals affected by the fire and I hope the library survived.
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 07, 2006, 12:32:05 PM
well thank god no one was hurt but the loss of the olive trees has got to have a big effect

Ali-Dave, thanks for the update, i'd just wish everyone there all the best (as i'm sure the rest of the forum does) and hope the fire is got under contral asap
Title: FIRE
Post by: Graham_and_Karen on July 07, 2006, 12:36:33 PM
Quote
I'm sure that forum members will wish to extend their sympathy to all the locals affected by the fire and I hope the library survived.
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=6503\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]
Yes - sad news for all of us that love the area so one can only try to imagine how the locals are feeling - it's their environment and their livelihoods.

 
Title: FIRE
Post by: Katerina on July 07, 2006, 02:14:56 PM
This is dreadful news for those who live in Plakias and love it.
It's obviously serious since it has made the national news in a country where summer fires are almost routine:
http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_artic...7/07/2006_71795 (http://www.ekathimerini.com/4dcgi/_w_articles_politics_100012_07/07/2006_71795)
I can't believe anyone would want to do such a thing, it will take years for the land to recover
Good luck to everyone there trying to put the blaze out
Title: FIRE
Post by: The Duchess on July 07, 2006, 02:54:48 PM
The library is ok. Andy was down there, twice, to clean it up. Apparently the place stinks - we all know what burnt olive oil smells like. The old trees and most of the plant-life will survive, they are adapted to survive the occasional fire. The wildlife, of course, won't be so lucky.

Thank God no-one was hurt.

Please remember, regular visitors, that Plakias depends on tourism. The residents won't think you're being voyeristic, and the welcome will be warmer than ever.
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 07, 2006, 04:09:37 PM
welcome to the forum Duchess, and thanks for the further update

it certainly won't put me off coming!
Title: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 07, 2006, 05:43:19 PM
It's not going to put me off either - still looking forward to my annual visit!

Thanks for the early info Ali - it would have been a shock to read about the fire anywhere else!

My thoughts go to all the locals, with a strong wish their determined personalities shine through, and that they will soon be back on their land.
Title: FIRE
Post by: John R on July 07, 2006, 06:19:14 PM
Definitely not putting us off. Will be sad to see the damage but things can only get better from now onwards.

I hope Ali that you can tell as many residents as possible that we are all thinking of them and will be loyal to them etc. I rang Babis last night to commiserate- he recognised me with my code word - "no veg - just portartos" - with which he greets me (a food fad) every time he approaches our table for an order.

John R
Title: FIRE
Post by: Susan K on July 07, 2006, 07:22:17 PM
I am so very sorry and sad that this has happened and I hope the fire is now out. I feel for the local people and understand what sort of effect this might have on them.

Ali & Dave please keep us posted and tell everyone we are thinking about them.

Susan
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 07, 2006, 07:49:11 PM
Latest information received from a reliable source is that the fire today was also started deliberately and the culprits were spotted then and later when they tried to set fire to Yiannis and Maria's (parents of Stelios from Ostraco) vegetable patch.  The police have been informed and it appears that they are non-greek teenagers who live in Selia!!

Hopefully now we can all start to relax.

Unfortunately some of the olive trees will not survive as the older, bigger tree trunks have been smoldering for hours and have been a real problem to put out.

I'm sure the locals here will appreciate all your kind thoughts.  The exhaustion and anger is obvious but being as professional as they are many who fought to save their homes and olives yesterday are still dealing with tourists in a courteous and friendly manner with a smile
Title: FIRE
Post by: John R on July 07, 2006, 08:04:32 PM
I wouldn't like to be in the shoes of those teenagers from Selia. The sooner the police have them in custody for their own sakes the better !! (or perhaps a short delay may ensue ??)
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 07, 2006, 10:59:42 PM
i saw the newspaper story that said it might have been deliberate but thought it was just  building up the story

we have trouble with the local kids but.............

i know this might sound self centred...but i hope to god we're not talking about english ex pats kids
Title: FIRE
Post by: Denis and Chris on July 08, 2006, 12:15:15 AM
Ali can you tell us how this affected Vangelis and family at the Aretousa, along with all the sheep he had in his field.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 08, 2006, 11:24:09 AM
Hi Dennis and Chris

Aretousa and the sheep in the field next to it survived.  Unfortunately the animals between Secret Nest and The Olive Grove didn't.

Understandably Evangalika and her husband were very upset, lots of hugs and tears.  But as each day passes there are more smiles.

Ali
Title: FIRE
Post by: Denis and Chris on July 08, 2006, 12:05:05 PM
Ali,

Thanks for letting us know.

Can imagine how how they feel with all the work they do looking after their land and animals.

Give Evangelika a hug from us till we see them.

Denis and Chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 08, 2006, 10:58:53 PM
It was just about ten in the morning when we were preparing for breakfast in sofia 200m from the secret nest) and went out to the balcony when we first mentioned the smoke rising from behind the hill behind plakias where the path to the old mill leads to. During the morning the smoke was getting more and thicker and around high noon the fire was first to be seen from our rooms in philoxenia. Till then the locals seem not to be so much upset but then they ran... we packed our childrens teddybears and left in the direction of the promenade where lotwsof people stood spectating the disaster with open mouth and some with tears in their eyes. The whole village was in thick smoke and ashes rained from the sky.  As the fire crept down the hill driven by those extreme winds there was not much hope that plakias itself would be able to flee the disaster. But the heroic work of all those firemen and firewomen managed to fight that hazardous fire back from the houses and it made its way more southerly in the direction of souda and burnt down till it reached the sea. Now, two days later live seems to be as normal. Tomorrow we'll try to walk the way to the old mill which we made just the day before the big fire and see what has been left of the valley's beauty. The fire is over. After our return I'll post some photos of the nightmare...

First time on the computer in Plakias Forum
Shinaria
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 08, 2006, 11:11:58 PM
Alf

danken gott you're all alright...that sounds very frightening indeed

but thanks for letting us know

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 09, 2006, 09:10:53 AM
We were having a Mythos or two with Stelios last night in Ostraco and he was saying that whilst the kids were caught trying to catch fire to his dad's veg patch he doesn't believe they were the main culprits for the other fires.  He seemed to think that the kids were just 'copying' (with not much achievement) the other fires and he doesn't think they have the character to have started the main fires.

So it's back to wondering who did start the fires.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ammoudaki on July 09, 2006, 10:42:59 AM
What a dreadful shock it must be for people - but  a huge relief to know that everybody was safe, quite a miracle.  And quite a miracle that no-one lost their home.

As to the culprits, what Stelios says rings true - it's always very tempting to rush into looking for people to blame after a disaster, but it's most important to get the right people, and for them to get justice in the right way.   This should bring the village together, rather than drive it apart.

I think the one of the greatest comforts from all this is how resilient the Cretans have been over so many years - I'm pretty confident that their strength of character will contribute to a quicker recovery than anyone would think possible.

Thinking of you all.
Title: FIRE
Post by: GeriMooney on July 09, 2006, 10:52:41 AM
Cathie and I were horrified to hear about the fire; it must have been very alarming indeed judging by the accounts so far. We are due in on Tuesday evening and will be able to see for ourselves .......... Knowing the good people of Plakias as we do, we are sure that normality will have been restored.
We are looking forward to meeting with all our friends once again.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 09, 2006, 02:59:26 PM
Quote
Latest information received from a reliable source is that the fire today was also started deliberately and the culprits were spotted then and later when they tried to set fire to Yiannis and Maria's (parents of Stelios from Ostraco) vegetable patch.  The police have been informed and it appears that they are non-greek teenagers who live in Selia!!

Hopefully now we can all start to relax.

Unfortunately some of the olive trees will not survive as the older, bigger tree trunks have been smoldering for hours and have been a real problem to put out.

I'm sure the locals here will appreciate all your kind thoughts.  The exhaustion and anger is obvious but being as professional as they are many who fought to save their homes and olives yesterday are still dealing with tourists in a courteous and friendly manner with a smile
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=6516\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 09, 2006, 03:08:51 PM
Hi Dave & Alli

Andy texted us about the fire & we couldn't believe it. Our thoughts go out to all the local people. It must have been so devastating. We only left a week ago & can't believe some one has destroyed the olives & the mountain since then. It certainly won't put us off though & we will be back in September I can't wait!
Title: FIRE
Post by: aspasia on July 10, 2006, 04:48:15 PM
Quote
It was just about ten in the morning when we were preparing for breakfast in sofia 200m from the secret nest) and went out to the balcony when we first mentioned the smoke rising from behind the hill behind plakias where the path to the old mill leads to. During the morning the smoke was getting more and thicker and around high noon the fire was first to be seen from our rooms in philoxenia. Till then the locals seem not to be so much upset but then they ran... we packed our childrens teddybears and left in the direction of the promenade where lotwsof people stood spectating the disaster with open mouth and some with tears in their eyes. The whole village was in thick smoke and ashes rained from the sky.  As the fire crept down the hill driven by those extreme winds there was not much hope that plakias itself would be able to flee the disaster. But the heroic work of all those firemen and firewomen managed to fight that hazardous fire back from the houses and it made its way more southerly in the direction of souda and burnt down till it reached the sea. Now, two days later live seems to be as normal. Tomorrow we'll try to walk the way to the old mill which we made just the day before the big fire and see what has been left of the valley's beauty. The fire is over. After our return I'll post some photos of the nightmare...

First time on the computer in Plakias Forum
Shinaria
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=6527\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]
Title: FIRE
Post by: aspasia on July 10, 2006, 04:51:26 PM
Quote
It was just about ten in the morning when we were preparing for breakfast in sofia 200m from the secret nest) and went out to the balcony when we first mentioned the smoke rising from behind the hill behind plakias where the path to the old mill leads to. During the morning the smoke was getting more and thicker and around high noon the fire was first to be seen from our rooms in philoxenia. Till then the locals seem not to be so much upset but then they ran... we packed our childrens teddybears and left in the direction of the promenade where lotwsof people stood spectating the disaster with open mouth and some with tears in their eyes. The whole village was in thick smoke and ashes rained from the sky.  As the fire crept down the hill driven by those extreme winds there was not much hope that plakias itself would be able to flee the disaster. But the heroic work of all those firemen and firewomen managed to fight that hazardous fire back from the houses and it made its way more southerly in the direction of souda and burnt down till it reached the sea. Now, two days later live seems to be as normal. Tomorrow we'll try to walk the way to the old mill which we made just the day before the big fire and see what has been left of the valley's beauty. The fire is over. After our return I'll post some photos of the nightmare...

First time on the computer in Plakias Forum
Shinaria
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=6527\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]
I have just registered on this forum which I had consulted several times before going to Plakias for the first time, this month. We have just returned on the 7th (we were there in Myrthios when the fire started) hoping that they had managed to put it off the following day. Thank God nobody was hurt but we can imagine what is in the poor people's hearts and souls. We were almost crying at seeing those beautiful olive trees which "accompanied" us every morning when going down the hills and then in the afternoons when getting back to Myrthios, ablaze but never imagined that the disaster would turn to be so devastating! I really hope that no human beings is involved in this. But if this is true then......We have fallen in love with the place and will be back next year, for sure...in spite of the terrible wind that blew almost 2 weeks (the time we stayed there)!!!
Title: FIRE
Post by: Susan K on July 10, 2006, 06:52:23 PM
Hello and welcome to the forum Aspasia.

Despite the tragic fire, I am glad you had a great time in Plakias, as most people do  .  You get used to the wind although sometimes when it is really bad you can't even sit on the beach.

Where did you stay on your first visit and where did you enjoy eating?

Susan
Title: FIRE
Post by: Mike G on July 12, 2006, 01:27:07 PM
Quote from: aspasia
We have fallen in love with the place and will be back next year, for sure...in spite of the terrible wind that blew almost 2 weeks (the time we stayed there)!!!
Hello Aspasia,

If you don't like the wind, have you thought about going in May? I have been three times then and although it is occasionally windy, most of the time it isn't. It is warm going on hot then, rather than the extreme heat of summer. I suspect the same applies from mid September onwards, although someone who goes regularly then can advise more authoritatively.

It is also much cheaper and less crowded and you may also get to meet Mr and Mrs Harribobs!!

Mike
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 12, 2006, 02:12:56 PM
Quote from: Mike G
It is also much cheaper and less crowded and you may also get to meet Mr and Mrs Harribobs!!

Mike

   offer also available in late september  


Hi Aspasia

good to see you enjoyed your visit!!  what wind??
Title: FIRE
Post by: Roland on July 12, 2006, 08:20:52 PM
Comiserations and best wishes to anyone that remembers us in Plakias.
Hope the fire's finally out for good now.

Will now make an even more concerted effort to get back for a week in September, unfortunately more dependent than we would wish for on last-minute flight/package bargains  

Roland & Jan
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ploppy on July 12, 2006, 08:21:47 PM
Welcome Aspasia,

We typically go in the first couple of weeks in September and recently we have been pretty unlucky with the wind. Last year (or was it the year before?) we had 11 out of 14 windy days.

This year we are not going until mid September so maybe we will have less wind this year.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Yvonne on July 12, 2006, 09:09:10 PM
Hi fellow Plakians
What a catastrophe. Peter and I can well imagine the devastation having just returned (yesterday) from Kephalonia where similar, but not nearly as severe,  fire(s) were started.  Our thoughts are with all those lovely people and wish them well.  We are looking to seeing them again in September.
Yvonne
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ploppy on July 12, 2006, 10:15:13 PM
Quote from: Yvonne
Hi fellow Plakians
What a catastrophe. Peter and I can well imagine the devastation having just returned (yesterday) from Kephalonia where similar, but not nearly as severe,  fire(s) were started.  Our thoughts are with all those lovely people and wish them well.  We are looking to seeing them again in September.
Yvonne

I echo that Yvonne. We have returned from a stroll on Hounslow Heath (OK not so exotic!) where they often have small bush fires, to imagine something a 1000 times bigger is dreadful.

All our best wishes to the people of Plakias, I know thier strength, character and resolve will pull them through this.

Paul
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 12, 2006, 10:45:29 PM
We normally arrive end sept beginning of October for our 2nd yearly visit & you never know what the wind or weather is doing, we have had hot, cold, windy, torrential rain but we still enjoy it because Plakias is special whatever the weather! Try not to plan just enjoy...

Rowena & Carl
Title: FIRE
Post by: reddiablo on July 13, 2006, 03:27:30 AM
[so   sorry to hear of this catastrophe,
I  often watched the animals near the secret nest.
just pleased to hear all are well

cheers   roger     canada
Title: FIRE
Post by: John & Zell on July 14, 2006, 12:28:04 PM
When we woke at 10.00 on Thursday morning the first thing we noticed was the smell of smoke filling the air, when we opened the patio doors (we always have the same back room at the Lamon) all we could see was the thick smoke in the distance and all you could hear was the sound of the locals shouting at what was happening.
By 2.00 in the afternoon the fire had taken a real hold, helped by the heavy gusting wind faning it. Fire engines were arriving all the time even from as far away as Heraklion. Word was that it was started deliberatly in 4 diferent places. The Secret Nest in the olive groves was evacuated. By now the road was blocked off by the bridge and the taxis and private cars were being moved away, although this was to allow the fire engines access at the bridge to refill with water. Some guy appeared in a huge JCB type vehicle and was dashing a breakneck speed from one side of the fire to the other in an attempt to create a fire break.
Local farmers arrived in pickup trucks with water barrels in the back with hose pipes in an attempt to help.
It was very saddening seeing grown men crying like they were, seeing what was to all intent their family history going up in smoke like it was, some of the Olive trees were over 200 years old.
In the evening as we went to Madousa. poor Babis was almost in tears, a lot of the olives had been in his family for generations, we tryed to comfort him, but what can you say?
As we walked back to the Lamon in the dark all you could see in the hillside was this eerie glow of the olive trees still alight inside and looking like ghostly fairy lights in the distance.
On the Friday morning it appeared that the fire had been beaten at last with the fire crews working throughout the night, but mid afternoon we heard that it had started up again and that the arsonists had been caught and were handed over to the police, although we later heard that they were not in fact the perpertraitors.
The fire engines remained for several days afterwards.
The only good thing is that appart from a few cases of smoke inhalation no one was seriously hurt, and that our beloved Plakias is safe once more.
[attachment=375:attachment][attachment=374:attachment][attachment=376:attachment][attachment=373:att
chment][attachment=377:attachment]
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 14, 2006, 02:23:23 PM
thanks for the report guys,

frightening.................
Title: FIRE
Post by: Santa on July 14, 2006, 02:59:16 PM
Quote from: harribobs
thanks for the report guys,

frightening.................
This is Santa- I have to tell you this has been a difficult time- The fire stopped 150 meters from my house . I was in Rethymno doing some banking and catching a lunch with my family when we got a frantic cell call from our friend Vangeli- " where are you? Plakias is burning and your house is in  trouble- get here now!". You can't come from the east- you must try through Sellia- maybe they will let you through?" I sped to Plakias and watched the fire creep closer- All we could do was pack our valuables and hope for the best- Luckily the winds shifted at the last moment and we were spared. I have been building my retirement home for 11 years- You cannot imagine what went through my mind-I have been telling my local friends here about the good wishes you have been posting and they do appreciate it very much.
Anyway, no lives were lost- thank God-
I will be leaving this Sunday, but will be back on August 5.
God bless you all-
Santa
Title: FIRE
Post by: aspasia on July 14, 2006, 03:39:23 PM
Quote from: compage
I'm sure that forum members will wish to extend their sympathy to all the locals affected by the fire and I hope the library survived.

I am a new member of the forum who has been in Plakias when the fire started but had to leave on the 7th and as far as I understand the worst started on the 8th. I cannot express in words what I feel for the people and this special place which I visited for the first time this summer. I have decided to go to Plakias mostly based on your forum and the comments made by the members and I was sure I will soon become addicted to this place. I would also want to express my sypathy but at the same time to tell all the Plakians to look on the bright side of the road. We are with them and next year I will be there again!
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 14, 2006, 09:29:50 PM
Quote from: Santa
I have been telling my local friends here about the good wishes you have been posting and they do appreciate it very much.
Anyway, no lives were lost- thank God-
I will be leaving this Sunday, but will be back on August 5.
God bless you all-
Santa


so many of us think of plakias as home as well, it hurts us as well

thank god it wasn't any worse
Title: FIRE
Post by: Luke on July 19, 2006, 12:59:04 AM
My girlfriend and i have just arrived back from Plakias today after 2 weeks there, and witnessed the fire. In the early hours of the morning on that Thursday i could smell smoke so i reckon that it was started during the night and spread when the wind picked up. We were staying at the Kostas Chrysoulla and had to be evacuated for the night to the Lamon Hotel, as are room was a mess with ash from the fire.
My girlfriend and i got chatting chatting to Yannis, one of the locals who works in the bar opposite the Souvlaki House and he believes that Albanians were to blame as them and the locals don't see eye to eye.
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 19, 2006, 08:58:11 AM
[ironic comment!!!] Sure: it must have been one of the Albanians as no one else does any dirty work for such low wages as they do. And there is always a scapegoat to blame. [ironic comment!!!]
  shinaria
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on July 19, 2006, 09:30:30 AM
I think were treading on doggy ground here guys, you're pointing the finger on the evidence of hearsay. Let's wait and see what the authorities come up with.

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 19, 2006, 09:47:24 AM
Right, George! I hope everybody noticed the IRONIC COMMENT signs.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Mandy Harrison on July 19, 2006, 11:42:04 AM
This is the first time I have read the report on the fire for myself although Harribobs has told me about it and its effects (we do live in the same house!).  Just wanted to say I am gutted about the fire and my heart goes out to the locals.  It saddens me to hear that their land has been damaged and livestock have been killed.  I cant wait to get back to Plak to check on my friends and hope they are doing ok and getting back to normal.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Anne and Stephen on July 19, 2006, 08:20:41 PM
[attachment=380:attachment][attachment=379:attachment]We too were in Plakias during the fire staying at Kostas Chrysoullas.  Some residents were evacuated to hotels locally and some to Rethymno, we stayed put as the smoke didn't affect our room too badly but went down to the front to avoid the worst of the smoke and ash.  (We were in the "dreaded" room 62 which we found none too bad at all, there's even a sliver of a sea view.)

Here are a few pictures of the fire and aftermath.
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on July 20, 2006, 08:13:16 AM
This is horrendous.
Thanks to everyone for the pictures, but they are very depressing.
I sincerely hope the find the cause and/or the culprits very soon.

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: Noopsy on July 20, 2006, 05:26:41 PM
An absolutely dreadful occurrence.  Is there anything that we, as a body of aficionados, can do in a practical way to help the people of Plakias recover?

Noopsy
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 20, 2006, 09:29:34 PM
we got a fax from Babbis tonight , he tells us they're still alive      

he says there may be 12,000 ( bloody hell!) olive trees lost on the Sellia side but he expecting us to come over and see it for our selves, also that all the trees around the houses are fine and are still green

he ends with his good wishes for everyone  


he sounds like his usual self and i, for one, can't wait to get back again!

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: paxmere on July 20, 2006, 10:27:02 PM
Great News about Babis. did he say if he had lost any olive trees Chris??
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 20, 2006, 11:38:34 PM
Quote from: paxmere
Great News about Babis. did he say if he had lost any olive trees Chris??

hi malc

he didn't say anything about that

i spoke to him when the phone rang but it was very short (  i was a bit surprised and taken back) so i just switched the fax on when he told me he was sending one

it sounded like a madhouse at the medousa    no change there then!
Title: FIRE
Post by: Alison&John on July 21, 2006, 12:04:44 PM
We had an email from the family whose studios we stay in (SKINOS) - they lost about 120 olive trees and 10,000m of water pipe.  Though they also said that all their property and family was safe, the sun was shining and they were happy!  We're hoping to return at the end of September which seems the best way of helping them.
Title: FIRE
Post by: beachcombers on July 25, 2006, 02:16:24 PM
Just reading the sad news about the fire after being a couple of weeks away from the forum.
Hopefully the village, the valley, all people living in and loving Plakias will recover soon from this tragedy.
They have our support.
Leen & Willemien.
   
Title: FIRE
Post by: beachcombers on July 28, 2006, 02:53:08 PM
Found on the web some more pictures of the bushfire.
Most likely from a plakias resdent.

Leen
   

Bushfire (http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/plakiasdj/my_photos)
Title: FIRE
Post by: sheryl on July 28, 2006, 05:46:05 PM
just got back from plakias on tuesday- i passed on everyones wishes about the fire.......to be honest nothing has changed, obviously you can look and see where the fire has been, but everyone is still there cheery selfs and if you couldn't see it you wouldn't know it had happened.
just to add alittle controversy, i heard a few times that if the fire was deliberate people would get money back from the goverment (some kind of insurance i guess) if it was a cigarette end they would get nothing - so the story of a deliberate fire is only a story according to some.........dont think they ever find out???????
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on September 15, 2006, 01:00:15 PM
Blooming lands after the fire?
Business as usual seems to have returned to Plakias. But I wonder what the long term effects of the fire will be.
 
Has anyone been around the wasted areas especially round the "old mill"? As mentioned the fire was said to be started there. Since our last visit a few days before the inferno we wonder how the place might look now. It used to be such wonder- and peaceful landscape with all the green bushes and trees beside the small river... Can anyone report  the actual situation? Anyone made a photograph?

Ευχαριστώ πολύ

shinaria
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on September 15, 2006, 02:09:52 PM
Alf

i'll be there next week and i'll certainly be doing some photographs of the area up to selia

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: beachcombers on September 15, 2006, 03:22:43 PM
Quote from: harribobs
Alf

i'll be there next week and i'll certainly be doing some photographs of the area up to selia

chris


It is about time to start packing Chris, Have a good time. (Mandy as well of course   )
Leave something to drink and eat for us. ( Looking at the calender   I am afraid we will have to survive with leftovers!  
Leen
 
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on September 15, 2006, 04:05:27 PM
Thanks Leen, we'll be trying very hard to have a good time   i can't tell you how much we're looking forward to it (after a very difficult last two weeks  :'( )

you might be able to find the odd bottle of mythos left    but i'm not telling you where!  

cheers

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on September 18, 2006, 01:25:53 PM
Hello chris,
have a good time and Kalo Taxidi. Looking forward to see your photos ...
alfred [shinaria]
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on September 18, 2006, 04:09:34 PM
thanks Alf

we're packed and ready for the off

i can't tell just how this last day at work has dragged................................

yamas!

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: John R on September 18, 2006, 07:51:40 PM
Quote from: harribobs
thanks Alf

we're packed and ready for the off

i can't tell just how this last day at work has dragged................................

yamas!

chris

Hey - we have another week. Have a great time. See you next week - at Medousa no doubt. Keep our table there free from Wednesday onwards !!!

John R
Title: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on October 01, 2006, 01:48:37 PM
Having been back a few weeks, I finally managed to get my pics downloaded.

People seem to be getting over the fire - and the land is already recovering, as you'll see in the second picture. You can see the scars still left - but already new growth is evident! In places, the fire came right down to the shore!
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on October 02, 2006, 11:11:16 AM
Quote from: ostraco
Having been back a few weeks, I finally managed to get my pics downloaded.

People seem to be getting over the fire - and the land is already recovering, as you'll see in the second picture. You can see the scars still left - but already new growth is evident! In places, the fire came right down to the shore!
I walked all the way up the hill by the side of Dora and the damage was considerable, and took the link road that joins onto the Selia Road and walked down into Souda and the extent of the fire, as you say John came all the way down to the Beach and yes the new growth is on it's way and in that climate it won't take long.
I had a chat with Ali while she was having a break from one of her hectic visits to Aretousa   and they still haven't found the cause, although they still have their suspisions.

BTW John, you have a double, 2 weeks ago you were walking down the road in Spili with an older lady.
He had the same walk same smile same haircut and he looked at me as I drove passed, and seemed to recognise me. Our hols were overlapping at one time but then I saw that you had moved your dates, so it couldn't have been you... could it?

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on October 02, 2006, 06:35:11 PM
Quote from: George
BTW John, you have a double, 2 weeks ago you were walking down the road in Spili with an older lady.
He had the same walk same smile same haircut and he looked at me as I drove passed, and seemed to recognise me. Our hols were overlapping at one time but then I saw that you had moved your dates, so it couldn't have been you... could it?

george g...

'twas not I George!
Didn't get to Spili at all this time - now who's trying to look like me? No - we got home on Sept 4th (ish)
I hope you found the new pic of me - it will maybe change your mind!
John
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on October 13, 2006, 09:24:00 AM
if you do the walk up to selia from plakias, you go through the heart of the fire, you can see that it was very bad in places but surprisingly little damage in others, but as george said, it's growing back again as we speak

one thing i did notice that once an olive tree caught fire...it burnt out

(http://harribobs.smugmug.com/photos/101746680-M.jpg)


but oddly enough it seemed that the next tree along could get away with just being lightly grilled

(http://harribobs.smugmug.com/photos/101746682-M.jpg)

it has left some quite strange remains in the groves

(http://harribobs.smugmug.com/photos/101746685-M-1.jpg)
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on April 12, 2007, 02:47:45 PM
I 'll be interested to see how much the groves have recovered by the time we return

I might even manage the odd photo  
Title: FIRE
Post by: reddiablo on April 18, 2007, 12:55:09 PM
I might even manage the odd photo  


Chris   ----------     I  have seen a few of your odd photos and always enjoy them.

Well I have a week in Plakias   , June 5 to 12th

flying from South West Florida  via Munich  .

but if our beloved Red  Devils make it to Athena on May 25th.

well then I will be in the aegean  with fergies  red and white army on may 20th.

thinking of taxi from chania to souda      how much is that   return ???

also looking to rent  scooters in plakias  , who has the best all round price and service

up  the reds

yammas   roger          just off to work @  8am  on swimming pools here in florida 80 f today


and BRIGHT   and SUNNY  
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on April 18, 2007, 12:58:55 PM
sounds like we'll miss you, we fly out on the 5th!!

did you catch the destruction of Roma?
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on April 18, 2007, 01:59:39 PM
'thinking of taxi from chania to souda how much is that return ???'

If you mean Souda Beach, it will probably be around 70 euros one way.

If you mean Souda Bay, it's probably easier to walk  

I haven't had a bike for years, so can't help you there, but I'm sure someone will  

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on April 18, 2007, 02:19:19 PM
rodger/red is talking about souda near plakias  

taxis (http://www.west-crete.com/taxis-crete.htm)

this is from Jean's site, but there's a online booking/quote option
Title: FIRE
Post by: reddiablo on April 20, 2007, 12:08:53 AM
Quote from: harribobs
sounds like we'll miss you, we fly out on the 5th!!

did you catch the destruction of Roma?


Chris    I  never miss a game even here in sunny florida

well the bloody glazers are close by     ughhhhhhhhhhhh

well i  if we turn over milan I will be in  Crete after the cup final

so approx  may 25th   where are u   staying  ??

if united fail  in the semis        then I will not arrive till evening of june 5

so lets  ask  Zeus  to bring  the red devils some luck.

and then I will get to meet ya

cheers   roger     red diablo
Title: FIRE
Post by: Santa on May 04, 2007, 01:20:31 PM
Quote from: reddiablo
Quote from: harribobs
sounds like we'll miss you, we fly out on the 5th!!

did you catch the destruction of Roma?


Chris    I  never miss a game even here in sunny florida

well the bloody glazers are close by     ughhhhhhhhhhhh

well i  if we turn over milan I will be in  Crete after the cup final

so approx  may 25th   where are u   staying  ??

if united fail  in the semis        then I will not arrive till evening of june 5

so lets  ask  Zeus  to bring  the red devils some luck.

and then I will get to meet ya

cheers   roger     red diablo
I watched the game, but I don't think the red devils showed up for the match- or did I miss something?
Santa
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on May 04, 2007, 03:19:02 PM
Quote from: Santa
I watched the game, but I don't think the red devils showed up for the match- or did I miss something?
Santa


err  yes it seems you did   , we beat Roma 7-1
Title: FIRE
Post by: Santa on May 07, 2007, 08:33:45 AM
Quote from: harribobs
Quote from: Santa
I watched the game, but I don't think the red devils showed up for the match- or did I miss something?
Santa


err  yes it seems you did   , we beat Roma 7-

Sorry- I was talking about the recent game with Milan-
Santa
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on May 08, 2007, 09:40:51 AM
Quote from: reddiablo
I might even manage the odd photo  


Chris   ----------     I  have seen a few of your odd photos and always enjoy them.

Well I have a week in Plakias   , June 5 to 12th

flying from South West Florida  via Munich  .

but if our beloved Red  Devils make it to Athena on May 25th.

well then I will be in the aegean  with fergies  red and white army on may 20th.

thinking of taxi from chania to souda      how much is that   return ???

also looking to rent  scooters in plakias  , who has the best all round price and service

up  the reds

yammas   roger          just off to work @  8am  on swimming pools here in florida 80 f today


and BRIGHT   and SUNNY  

We've always hired scooters from easy ride in Plakias next to the post office, Kristos the guy that runs it is lovely and will normally do a good price but most importantly his bikes are well looked after. If you go to him tell him Rowena & Carl with the white Vespa recommended you. ( we have got our own scooter out there now. )

Have fun

Rowena & Carl
Title: FIRE
Post by: Barny on May 08, 2007, 09:45:23 AM
I also have used easy ride for the last six ish years and have never had a problem!
Recomended by me.

                Barny.
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on June 20, 2007, 11:41:42 PM
Quote from: harribobs
I 'll be interested to see how much the groves have recovered by the time we return

I might even manage the odd photo  


a couple of pics from the fire area

(http://harribobs.smugmug.com/photos/165016191-M.jpg)

moving the old burn stumps

(http://harribobs.smugmug.com/photos/165326247-M.jpg)
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on June 21, 2007, 01:07:02 PM
Thank you, Chris for the pictures... nice to see that the flora is covering the wounded land with a new coat of green now!
Hope you had a great time there!

shinaria
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on June 21, 2007, 01:44:46 PM
We know that this was an absolute disaster for the owners and the locals, and for us, but this burn can only hopefully do the whole area some good, let's all hope  

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: Mike G on August 25, 2007, 02:13:12 PM
The sad news today about the fatalities in the Peloponnese fires reminded me of the Plakias fires of July 2006. Can someone who has been recently report on how the surrounding area has recovered. Also, did they catch the cuprits?

Mike
Title: FIRE
Post by: Chas on August 25, 2007, 02:49:04 PM
Quote from: Mike G
.... Can someone who has been recently report on how the surrounding area has recovered.  ...


A few pics taken this July, up around the Olive Press ....

(http://inlinethumb27.webshots.com/4442/2088913190046486184S600x600Q85.jpg)


(http://inlinethumb34.webshots.com/6945/2567712400046486184S600x600Q85.jpg)


(http://inlinethumb07.webshots.com/4870/2443201740046486184S600x600Q85.jpg)

As you can see, even the worst burnt "stumps" are showing healthy growth and the scrub / brush / undergrowth is coming back.
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on August 31, 2007, 09:43:58 AM
Another question about the results of the Plakias-fire in 2006: Was the fire followed by any construction of buildings on the burnt areas?
Latest news talk about a fire near Rethymno. Has anyone further informations?

This site shows daily updated pictures fom "the eye in the sky over greece" http://rapidfire.sci.gsfc.nasa.gov/subsets/?Europe_3_03 (http://rapidfire.sci.gsfc.nasa.gov/subsets/?Europe_3_03)
As you scroll back through the days you get an idea about the size of the fire that burnt the Peloponnes recently.
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on August 31, 2007, 03:46:07 PM
i was talking to babbis about the fire and it's consequences, if my understanding was correct the burnt trees have to be cut back and new branches grafted on to them in order for them to produce 'proper' olives again
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on June 24, 2008, 09:10:38 AM
Unfortunately we had another fire in the area on Saturday.  It started between Sellia and Souda, just below the level of Sellia and rapidly spread towards the Dragon's Head.  Again we had really bad winds, but not quite as strong as 2006.  They were able to use the fire helicopters and the planes.  The pilot of the helicopter should be given a medal for his flying abilities.  As I say, it was very windy and he was doing a round trip of filling up in the bay and emptying the water over the fire every 10-15 mins.  To keep the helicopter steady in the wind we had whilst filling the bucket was so impressive and scary to watch as you worried each time whether he would get back up.  The planes were mainly used when the copter had to go up to the north coast to refuel, and in fact, the planes were taking on water up there as well as the wind was too strong down here.

Luckily apart from a few minor burns and sindged (?? spelling??) hair I don't think anyone was hurt, no houses lost although again some olive trees have been destroyed.

Ali
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on June 24, 2008, 09:20:16 AM
Quote from: Ali & Dave
Unfortunately we had another fire in the area on Saturday.  It started between Sellia and Souda, just below the level of Sellia and rapidly spread towards the Dragon's Head.  Again we had really bad winds, but not quite as strong as 2006.  They were able to use the fire helicopters and the planes.  The pilot of the helicopter should be given a medal for his flying abilities.  As I say, it was very windy and he was doing a round trip of filling up in the bay and emptying the water over the fire every 10-15 mins.  To keep the helicopter steady in the wind we had whilst filling the bucket was so impressive and scary to watch as you worried each time whether he would get back up.  The planes were mainly used when the copter had to go up to the north coast to refuel, and in fact, the planes were taking on water up there as well as the wind was too strong down here.

Luckily apart from a few minor burns and sindged (?? spelling??) hair I don't think anyone was hurt, no houses lost although again some olive trees have been destroyed.

Ali
Anyone know the cause of the fire Ali, we all know the last one was a bit suspicious?

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on June 24, 2008, 09:31:30 AM
Quote from: George
Quote from: Ali & Dave
Unfortunately we had another fire in the area on Saturday.  It started between Sellia and Souda, just below the level of Sellia and rapidly spread towards the Dragon's Head.  Again we had really bad winds, but not quite as strong as 2006.  They were able to use the fire helicopters and the planes.  The pilot of the helicopter should be given a medal for his flying abilities.  As I say, it was very windy and he was doing a round trip of filling up in the bay and emptying the water over the fire every 10-15 mins.  To keep the helicopter steady in the wind we had whilst filling the bucket was so impressive and scary to watch as you worried each time whether he would get back up.  The planes were mainly used when the copter had to go up to the north coast to refuel, and in fact, the planes were taking on water up there as well as the wind was too strong down here.

Luckily apart from a few minor burns and sindged (?? spelling??) hair I don't think anyone was hurt, no houses lost although again some olive trees have been destroyed.

Ali
Anyone know the cause of the fire Ali, we all know the last one was a bit suspicious?

george g...


Probably cigarette out of a car window.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Alison&John on July 02, 2008, 08:10:12 AM
We've just got back from Plakias and heard about the fire from the family whose studios we stay in (SKINOS).  They suspected a cigarette too.  They lost some trees but also their water hoses which seemed to be what concerned them most.

Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 05, 2008, 11:32:09 PM
We were at Souda when the fire took hold, Very scary the flames must have been 20- 30 foot high & through the binoculars they were sweeping through so quickly. The Helicopter was amazing, as were the planes & the many very brave firefighters & locals that went to the scene (first time ever have heard sirens through Plakias!!) I have some pictures so if I can figure out how to put them on thr forum I will.

Rowena
Title: FIRE
Post by: Worksopdave on July 07, 2008, 07:06:06 PM
We saw the helicopter from Plakias. Amazing skill by the pilots as the wind was very gusty that day Sorry, not the best photo due to the distance, but you get the idea!
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 08, 2008, 12:11:52 AM
Quote from: Worksopdave
We saw the helicopter from Plakias. Amazing skill by the pilots as the wind was very gusty that day Sorry, not the best photo due to the distance, but you get the idea!

Yes I agree that could not have been easy for the pilot, will put pic's on soon! we have a new laptop WINDOWS VISTA & it's taking a while!! Any suggestions welcome

Rowena
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 08, 2008, 05:19:33 PM
Quote from: Rowena & Carl
Yes I agree that could not have been easy for the pilot, will put pic's on soon! we have a new laptop WINDOWS VISTA & it's taking a while!! Any suggestions welcome

Rowena



see if this helps

posting photos on the forum (http://forums.plakias.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=825)

chris
Title: FIRE
Post by: Chris H. on July 13, 2008, 01:55:31 PM
Big fire yesterday around Amoudi, the whole eastern sky of plakias was black and grey with smoke, the helicopters dipted there containers in Plakias bay, very spectacular! went on for hours, they managed to put it out just before dark, the loss was a lot of scrubs, small olive trees and a stable, sorry, no foto's!
Apart from that business as usual here, 4 days of wind now, from tomorrow no wind and 43 degrees in the shade, large beer still 2.50 at Ostraco's, 3 more weeks to go!
Chris H.
Title: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 13, 2008, 09:29:08 PM
 and again we are witnesses of the fire... There was a fire near souda and there is a report with some photos in a greek magasin showin some UFOs around the helicopters...
With best regards live from Plakias

shinaria
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 13, 2008, 10:18:22 PM
:'(  crikey!

good to hear it was put out fast though

when we were out in the hills in june both of us noticed how dry everything was then, almost like the end of summer rather than the beginning
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rodger on July 14, 2008, 11:11:23 PM
Apparently there was also a fire on Skyros this weekend which laid waste to 1500 acres of forest (source: http://www.skyros.com/news.htm (http://www.skyros.com/news.htm)). It took 250 firefighters supported by hundreds of volunteers and army units from the mainland to put it out.   Odd that there's been little if anything about all this in UK media.  I'm flying to Crete tomorrow with some trepidation ...



Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 16, 2008, 08:36:36 AM
Quote from: shinaria
and again we are witnesses of the fire... There was a fire near souda and there is a report with some photos in a greek magasin showin some UFOs around the helicopters...
With best regards live from Plakias

shinaria


This magazine article is very weird.  It's a magazine called Third Eye and is about all the weird happenings around the world.  Lots of photos of helicopter both filling up at sea and over the land with the company of 2 flying saucers.  It's strange how people who spent most of the day watching the helicopters never saw anything and nobody else seems to have captured the same pictures.  But it's kept people entertained here.

Ali
Title: FIRE
Post by: Ali & Dave on July 16, 2008, 08:58:25 AM
I think the people fighting fires deserve big thanks.  Apparently the helicopters and pilots are Russian and the locals are totally impressed with their skills; flying in very difficult conditions and knowing exactly how to release the water to obtain maximum effect.  A fireman told one of my friends that they really appreciate the help of the locals when fighting fire in the Finikas area as everyone comes out to help and they are shown all the water supplies.

So top marks to everyone fighting the fires    and black marks to people who don't care what they do with the cigarette ends  

Ali
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on July 16, 2008, 09:11:26 AM
I was watching the fires in, I think Olympia, on the mainland last year on TV, and was amazed by the effort that the locals were making to help the fire fighters.
Unfortunately in the UK we've got Health and Safety!

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: Chris H. on July 17, 2008, 03:22:54 PM
Ali,

Discussed the case of cigarette stubs with Manolis of Skinos, He insists it's impossoble to start a fire with a cigarette, tried it many times  in a safe place  he told me but never succeeded to start a fire ????
Chris H.
Title: FIRE
Post by: George on July 17, 2008, 03:46:22 PM
Quote from: Chris H.
Ali,

Discussed the case of cigarette stubs with Manolis of Skinos, He insists it's impossoble to start a fire with a cigarette, tried it many times  in a safe place  he told me but never succeeded to start a fire ????
Chris H.
I for one am not going to take the chance. If out in the car the ashtray gets used, and if I'm walking anywhere, I make sure the things dead as a doornail before I leave it!

Sorry Chris, I have no intension of disproving Manolis wrong, and I hope no one else will either!!  

george g...
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rowena & Carl on July 17, 2008, 11:45:44 PM
[attachment=609:P1010845.JPG]
Quote from: George
Quote from: Chris H.
Ali,

Discussed the case of cigarette stubs with Manolis of Skinos, He insists it's impossoble to start a fire with a cigarette, tried it many times in a safe place he told me but never succeeded to start a fire ????
Chris H.
I for one am not going to take the chance. If out in the car the ashtray gets used, and if I'm walking anywhere, I make sure the things dead as a doornail before I leave it!

Sorry Chris, I have no intension of disproving Manolis wrong, and I hope no one else will either!!  

george g...

I was sorry to hear news of yet another fire, News travels fast before I had even seen the forum I had news from Germany. I was told it was caused by some Polish cooking people (as described by my friend) her source lives in the area.

We travelled to Rethymno on our scooter in June & I saw people throwing cigarette butts out of car windows, Why do they do it??

Anyway I will now try and attach some pic's of the Souda fire, thanks Chris for the advice. OK pic on but in strange place I have really never got to grips with the whole posting, quoting thing any tips??
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 19, 2008, 09:26:37 PM
you've done a fantastic job there!

superb photo!
Title: FIRE
Post by: dimitri on July 19, 2008, 10:06:01 PM
Quote from: Rowena & Carl
[attachment=609:P1010845.JPG]
Quote from: George
Quote from: Chris H.
Ali,

Discussed the case of cigarette stubs with Manolis of Skinos, He insists it's impossoble to start a fire with a cigarette, tried it many times in a safe place he told me but never succeeded to start a fire ????
Chris H.
I for one am not going to take the chance. If out in the car the ashtray gets used, and if I'm walking anywhere, I make sure the things dead as a doornail before I leave it!

Sorry Chris, I have no intension of disproving Manolis wrong, and I hope no one else will either!!  

george g...

I was sorry to hear news of yet another fire, News travels fast before I had even seen the forum I had news from Germany. I was told it was caused by some Polish cooking people (as described by my friend) her source lives in the area.

We travelled to Rethymno on our scooter in June & I saw people throwing cigarette butts out of car windows, Why do they do it??

Anyway I will now try and attach some pic's of the Souda fire, thanks Chris for the advice. OK pic on but in strange place I have really never got to grips with the whole posting, quoting thing any tips??
Throwing fag butts out eh, mmmm they are cretans you know,they dont obey any law as far as i remember,thats why we luv em.
Title: FIRE
Post by: Robin Young on July 20, 2008, 11:09:30 AM
Hi All
Here a couple of photographs of the helicopters at work on the Souda fire taken from the road from Selia to Rodakino.
The fire was almost out at this stage and they were just dealing with some local hot spots.

Robin Young
Title: FIRE
Post by: Graham_and_Karen on July 20, 2008, 09:29:42 PM
Excellent photos, Robin  
Title: FIRE
Post by: harribobs on July 20, 2008, 11:08:04 PM
     

great photos!!
Title: FIRE
Post by: Rodger on July 23, 2008, 10:57:31 AM
Seems there have also been a spate of fires around Galini - I went on a tour to Phaestos and Gortyn last Sat and the guide was telling us it had been going on for a week or so.  You may also notice some patches of scorched earth on the road to Rethymno, including quite an extensive one just outside Koxale.

Lance Chilton's new book also mentions a fire towards Sellia in autumn 2005, or has he got the dates mixed up?
Title: FIRE
Post by: John & Zell on July 23, 2008, 10:58:51 AM
Just got back and 4 fires in 3 days 1st one near the ravine, 2 days later a big fire near Rethmnon, we heard this was started by the drug producers to  deter the police, later in the afternoon it was Damnoini's turn, this lasting for several hours, very spectacular watching the helicopters scooping water out of  Plakias bay, and on our last day 15th a fire at Koxari which meant Zach had to take the western back road out of Plakias, what can I say but WOW!!!!!!! what veiws everywhere lush greenery I can well recomend it for  a casual drive out you would never know you were in Crete.
John & Zell
Title: FIRE
Post by: Noopsy on July 23, 2008, 11:44:33 AM
Seems like fires on Crete - and in the rest of Greece - are becoming a normal experience.  

Noopsy
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 09, 2013, 01:23:31 PM
A huge fire east of Plakias was reported on facebook (Plakias Group) a few minutes ago.
Any news about that?
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: shinaria on July 09, 2013, 01:24:51 PM
Btw.: I'm not there now!
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 09, 2013, 01:32:44 PM
Slightly edited posts from Ali in Plakias: 
Big fire up over the Calypso headland. Unfortunately really strong wind so whilst they are fighting hard to control it, it's proving difficult.
They appear to have water, the irrigation water must be OK. We could see one fireman doing a great job fighting the fire. Barb, we are talking about the headland, up above Plakias Bay Hotel!
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 09, 2013, 01:48:20 PM
It would appear that things are under control now (Picture pinched from the Plakias facebook group)
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: JackieatUrbanAgenda on July 09, 2013, 02:35:57 PM
Horrible news but thank you for letting us all know. Plakias is such a part of our lives and anything like this is devastating. Nature is a wonderful thing and it will compensate in many ways but the loss of livestock and livelihoods is always so sad. Please pass our best wishes on to all involved and our thanks to everyone who helped to tackle the fire. Nothing would stop us coming back and if there is anything we can do...even though we're half the EU away...please let us know via the Forum.

Jackie and Dai in Plymouth, UK.
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 09, 2013, 02:42:58 PM
It's always sad to hear of fires in Plakias - and with the growth of the internet we now get the bad news very quickly. Having been a regular visitor for years, I can only say that the area will recover - as many other parts of the region have in the past. Best news is that it would appear there were no serious injuries.

And Jackie - I didn't know you were in Plymouth - I was until January this year, when I moved back to Cornwall, land of my birth. However, I'm now in Torpoint, so not far away.
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 09, 2013, 04:42:15 PM
Any more Janners out there?  Perhaps we should meet up?
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: JackieatUrbanAgenda on July 10, 2013, 12:20:45 PM
Hmmm...can feel a Plymouth Plakias twinning coming on !....I know there are a few other Plakias fans in the area. We'll have to see if we can find a UK watering hole in common...I am sure we'd find something to talk about !!!! Any ideas ?
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: Tony and Sandra Smith on July 10, 2013, 05:28:30 PM
Hmmm...can feel a Plymouth Plakias twinning coming on !....I know there are a few other Plakias fans in the area. We'll have to see if we can find a UK watering hole in common...I am sure we'd find something to talk about !!!! Any ideas ?

Nudism in Plakias?

Runs away and hides!
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: JackieatUrbanAgenda on July 10, 2013, 09:12:39 PM
Well...if you tried that in Plymouth you'd attract far more attention....and, possibly, an ASBO or a fine ! Don't think we'll be going down that road.
Title: Re: FIRE
Post by: ostraco on July 11, 2013, 02:16:45 AM
I think a get together would be a great idea - but not being much of a drinker, I'm not sure of a good watering hole in Plymouth to suggest. Somewhere with plenty of space so we can grab a corner to ourselves would be good. Union Rooms?
As for topics - well I'm sure we won't run out.