Emergency crews were responding on Sunday to a wildfire near the northern port city of Kavala, in a forested area east of the city, adjacent to a residential area and tourist area.

The blaze was reported at 13.30 local time, with authorities issuing an alert to local residents via SMS.

Very gusty winds were blowing in the region.

Traffic was temporarily interrupted on a nearby thoroughfare, while the municipality of Kavala’s bus depot was evacuated. Local residents were also instructed to evacuate the area, according to the state broadcaster.

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Meanwhile, a locally elected Parliament deputy, Yannis Paschalidis, said the wildfire was the result of arson, without giving further details.

Forty-two firefighters are combating the flames, while 10 vehicles were operating at the site, aided by three water-dropping helicopters.   

A high alert for wildfires was declared in several parts of Greece for Sunday, due to high temperatures, arid conditions and high winds.