Zante Wildfires August 2025: Latest Updates, Tourism Safety & Current Situation

Published: August 14, 2025 | Last Updated: 10:00 AM GMT

Executive Summary: Holidays Continue with Safety Measures in Place

Important Update for Travellers: While wildfires are currently affecting parts of Zakynthos (Zante), all major tourist resorts remain safe and operational. Zakynthos Airport is fully functional with flights operating normally, and the island's tourism infrastructure continues to welcome visitors with enhanced safety protocols.

Current Wildfire Situation in Zante

What's Happening Right Now

Over 100 wildfires have broken out across Greece, with some of the most severe fires affecting Zakynthos, along with other regions including Achaia, Kefalonia, and Chios. The most challenging wildfire front in Zakynthos broke out early on August 12, 2025, in the Koiliómenos area, currently affecting forested land and threatening homes in Agalas and Keri.

Affected Areas on the Island

The fires are primarily concentrated in three main locations:

• Koiliomeno area - where the main fire originated

• Agalas village - which has seen evacuations

• Keri settlement - temporarily evacuated but now reopened

• Lithakia region - situation has improved significantly

According to recent reports, the situation in Lithakia has improved considerably following successful containment efforts using specialised back-burning methods.

Emergency Response and Containment Efforts

The Greek authorities have deployed substantial resources to combat the fires:

Currently, 35 firefighters with 13 vehicles, five aircraft, and three helicopters are working to contain the blaze on Zakynthos, supported by local municipality water trucks. Nearly 5,000 firefighters assisted by 33 aircraft have been deployed across Greece since dawn to contain flames stoked by winds and hot, dry conditions.

Additional reinforcements include:

• 14 firefighters with specialised foot teams traveling by ferry from Kyllini

• Plans for 35 more firefighters, three foot teams, and 10 vehicles as backup

• Continuous aerial support with water-dropping operations

Tourism Safety: All Major Resorts Remain Unaffected

Tourist Areas That Are Safe and Operational

Excellent news for holidaymakers: None of the major tourist resorts including Alykes, Alykanas, Tsilivi, Argassi, Vasilikos, Kalamaki, or Laganas have been affected by the wildfires.

The Zakynthos Informer, a local tourism authority, has issued reassurance stating: "We would like to reassure our visitors to our Island that ALL tourist resorts are safe and there is absolutely NO problem within resort areas".

Airport Operations Continue Normally

Flight Status Update: Zakynthos Airport remains fully operational with flights continuing to land and take off as scheduled. Live flight-tracking platforms for Zakynthos, including Skyscanner, FlightRadar24, and FlightAware, show no cancellations connected to wildfire activity.

Travellers should:

• Monitor live flight tracking services for any last-minute changes

• Contact airlines directly for the most current flight status

• Stay informed about local developments through official channels

Hotel and Accommodation Safety

While the vast majority of tourist accommodations remain unaffected, authorities have taken precautionary measures where necessary. One hotel in the Apelati area near Keri was evacuated as a precaution, though this was purely preventative.

Most hotels and resorts in the main tourist areas continue operating with:

• Normal check-in and check-out procedures

• Full restaurant and amenity services

• Standard recreational activities (except forest-based excursions)

• Enhanced communication systems for emergency updates

Current Fire Risk Level and Restrictions

Official Risk Assessment

The Civil Protection Authority in Greece has declared an extreme wildfire risk (level 4 - Very High) for ten regions nationwide, including the Ionian Islands where Zakynthos is located.

Temporary Activity Restrictions

Due to the elevated fire risk, certain activities are temporarily restricted:

• Forest roads are closed to prevent accidental fire starts

• Zakynthos Castle visits are suspended

• Shipwreck Viewpoint access is restricted

• Beach and resort activities continue normally

Transportation Within the Island

Road infrastructure is largely operational, with the crossroads at Denis Taverna in Lithakia, which was temporarily closed, now reopened. Local transportation services are maintaining regular schedules to tourist areas.

International Response and Support

European Union Assistance

Greece has requested assistance from the European Civil Protection Mechanism, seeking four firefighting aircraft to support containment efforts. This international cooperation demonstrates the coordinated response to manage the situation effectively.

Wider European Context

The wildfires in Greece are part of a broader pattern affecting southern Europe. Heat alerts have been issued across Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Balkans, with temperatures expected to soar above 40°C (104°F) in some regions.

What This Means for Current and Future Visitors

For Travelers Already in Zante

If you're currently vacationing in Zakynthos:

• Continue enjoying your holiday - all major tourist areas remain safe

• Stay informed through official emergency alert systems (112 messages)

• Avoid hiking or visiting forested areas until restrictions are lifted

• Keep important documents easily accessible

• Follow any instructions from your accommodation or local authorities

For Future Bookings

Tourism continues as planned with enhanced safety measures:

• Accommodations in tourist zones remain fully operational

• Transportation to and from the island continues normally

• Beach activities, dining, and nightlife proceed without disruption

• Tour operators are adapting excursions to avoid affected areas

Health and Safety Precautions

Visitors should be aware of:

• Possible smoke visibility in some areas

• Air quality considerations for those with respiratory conditions

• The importance of staying hydrated in elevated temperatures

• Emergency contact procedures through the 112 alert system

Environmental Impact and Recovery Efforts

Damage Assessment

The fires have affected forest, farmland, homes, livestock facilities, warehouses, vehicles, small chapels, and some shops, with power outages occurring after damage to local infrastructure.

However, the impact on tourism infrastructure has been minimal, with most damage occurring in rural and agricultural areas rather than developed tourist zones.

Long-term Outlook

Greek authorities are implementing:

• Enhanced fire prevention measures

• Improved early warning systems

• Infrastructure improvements for better emergency response

• Sustainable tourism practices that account for climate considerations

Emergency Contacts and Resources

Essential Numbers

• Emergency Services: 112 (European emergency number)

• Tourist Police: 171

• Zakynthos Airport: +30 26950 28322

Staying Informed

• Monitor local news and official government communications

• Follow Zakynthos Informer for tourism-specific updates

• Use flight tracking apps for real-time airport information

• Register with your embassy if staying for extended periods

Conclusion: Tourism Resilience and Safety First

While the wildfires in Zakynthos represent a serious environmental challenge, the island's tourism infrastructure has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Nearly 5,000 firefighters and extensive aircraft support are working around the clock to contain the situation, and their efforts are showing positive results in key areas.

The bottom line: Holidays in Zante continue safely with all major tourist facilities operational, the airport functioning normally, and comprehensive safety measures in place. The Greek authorities' rapid response and international support are effectively containing the fires while protecting both residents and visitors.

For travellers considering visits to Zakynthos, the situation remains manageable with proper awareness and adherence to local guidance. The island's commitment to visitor safety, combined with its natural beauty and vibrant tourism offerings, ensures that your Greek island experience can proceed as planned.

Stay updated: This situation is being monitored continuously, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

This blog post compiles information from multiple international news sources including Al Jazeera, Greek Reporter, National World, and local Greek authorities as of August 14, 2025. For the most current information, always consult official sources and local authorities.