Zakynthos Wildfire..... Huge effort by firefighters.....improvement in conditions.

photo credit June Chapman Woodward

 WThe situation in Lithakia seems to have improved for the moment, where a brave battle was fought during the night. The fire DID NOT reach the village area and residents were NOT evacuated. 
The Fire and Civil Protection forces, volunteer groups and the residents themselves fought an all-night battle with the flames in order to contain the fire that has been burning on our island since yesterday (12.08), causing incalculable destruction in forest areas and crops.
It is recalled that yesterday there was a serious problem in the Agalas area, where houses and a business burned down.
With the winds blowing fiercely throughout the day, the fire raged uncontrollably and fire fronts were springing up from everywhere. Initially, the direction of the fire moved towards the Keri area.
Last night, however, was very difficult for the village of Lithakia, with the wind direction directing the fire towards the villages Mouzaki and Pantokratoras as well.
According to information, following a special order, the back burning method was successfully used to contain the fire.
It is also noted that reinforcements have been on our island since yesterday. At this time, three planes are operating from the air, assisting the work of the ground forces. The picture is greatly improved, with a critical front being located above Lake Keri with continuous resurgences, especially in the Agalas area..
However, there seems to be a problem at the “Katalupou” location, where our fire forces are battling.  
KERI...After speaking with the Vice General Director Of Zakynthos, Mr. Kostasa Tsirigiotis we have been told that the road to Keri is open for those who would like to return to their accommodation, there is not a problem.  also reporter Dionysios Binioris told us that the cross roads at Denis Taverna in Lithakia which was closed yesterday is now open. 
Zakynthos Informer would like to re assure our visitors to our Island that ALL tourist resorts are safe and there is absolutely NO problem within resort areas. We do remind you though that we are on level four (Very High Fire Risk) meaning that ALL forest roads will be closed, the Castle and Shipwreck View Point. 
More updates will come later in the day.