Yacht crew arrested after fireworks spark devastating Hydra fire

A 13-member yacht crew has been arrested in connection with a fire on the island of Hydra in Greece. Authorities believe the cause was fireworks launched from the yacht. The perpetrators could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $212,000.

A fire broke out on the island of Hydra, located near the Peloponnese, on Friday evening. The Minister for Civil Protection and Climate Crisis, Vassilis Kikilias, reported that the fire consumed 296 acres of the island's only pine forest. The fire was contained only by Saturday afternoon. Greek authorities stated that fireworks launched from a nearby yacht caused the fire.

The ship left the area around Hydra on Saturday afternoon and docked at a marina in Athens. Shortly after, 13 crew members were arrested. On Sunday, they were taken to the prosecutor's office. The yacht was temporarily confiscated.

The eKathimerini portal reports that if the perpetrators are found guilty, they could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $212,000. Earlier this year, Greece introduced stricter arson regulations.

Hundreds of firefighters are battling 70 wildfires in various parts of Greece, including the islands of Andros and Salamina. Strong winds are hindering the firefighting efforts, which could lead to the emergence of new hot spots. Due to the threat, residents of four towns on the island were evacuated. The fire has not yet reached local tourist resorts. On Saturday, firefighters extinguished a forest fire on Salamina in the Saronic Gulf west of Athens.

According to Greek meteorologists, the appearance of fires in the first half of June is related to the much earlier arrival of hot and dry air and strong winds.