The Metropolitan of Rhodes has reached out to all parishes with a request to provide shelter in temples for those affected by the forest fires. Several municipalities on the island of Rhodes have declared a state of emergency since last week, as firefighters battle the flames day and night.

According to the Greek news agency orthodoxianewsagency.gr, Metropolitan Evgenios of Rhodes has been visiting parishes in the fire-affected areas and meeting with nuns from monasteries, where the fire has already been extinguished.

The fires, which escalated on Sunday, July 23, and are no longer under control of rescue teams, have prompted authorities to evacuate tourists, especially from the most dangerous areas. Thousands of people have lost their homes and belongings due to the fires, and more than 30,000 individuals have been evacuated. The affected locals and stranded tourists have sought refuge in schools and temporary shelters. People are spending their nights in gyms, schools, stadiums, and the airport, and Orthodox volunteers are assisting in providing shelter, food, and medical aid.

Experts attribute the unprecedentedly strong fires on Rhodes to extreme heat of over 40 degrees Celsius, which has persisted since mid-July. The fires have spread to the central and southeast parts of the island, reaching the Mediterranean coast. The combination of drought, high temperatures, and wind has facilitated the rapid spread of the flames.

The situation on Rhodes is a distressing reminder of the devastating impact of wildfires and the importance of timely response and support from the local community. The efforts of the Orthodox Church to provide shelter and assistance demonstrate the importance of solidarity and compassion during such challenging times. The devastating effects of climate change and extreme weather patterns call for proactive measures to prevent and mitigate the impacts of such disasters in the future. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, it is crucial for communities to come together and support one another in times of crisis.