The Department of Foreign Affairs has issued an advisory warning Irish citizens in Rhodes to be vigilant and avoid areas affected by the raging wildfires that have been engulfing the Greek island. The warning has been issued to those who are already on the island, as well as to those who are planning to travel there. According to the Department, a number of Irish citizens have been impacted by the fires, and they are urging anyone with concerns to contact them directly.
The spokesperson for the Department emphasized the importance of staying informed about the situation and advised travelers to check with their tour operators or hotels to determine if the areas they plan to visit are affected by the wildfires. This comes as over 30,000 people have been relocated to safer areas on the island, with many residents and tourists forced to evacuate their homes and hotels overnight.
For one Irish family, including an 11-year-old daughter, the experience was particularly harrowing. Amy Leyden and her family were on holiday when they were ordered to evacuate their hotel in the middle of the night. “The police ran into our hotel and said ‘you need to go now, you’re not going to make it’,” Ms Leyden recounted. “It was just terrifying. We had to walk down the road at 2am with our 11-year-old daughter, and I didn’t think we would make it.”
Rhodes Wildfires Force Evacuation of Thousands
The shocking account highlights the urgency and chaos surrounding the wildfires, which have left many families like the Leydens feeling shaken and displaced. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for Irish citizens to stay vigilant and follow guidance from the authorities to ensure their safety.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has been working closely with the Greek authorities to monitor the situation and provide assistance to Irish citizens affected by the wildfires. With the situation still unfolding, it is essential for travelers to remain informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
