CYPRUS: 80,000 chickens die from heat and smoke inhalation

By: Ollus Ndomu

Cyprus farmers have made huge losses after 80,000 chickens died from heat and smoke inhalation on Sunday, July 4, in Ora village amidst a major fire sweeping through the Mediterranean area.

VOA reported Monday that four people believed to be Egyptian nationals were found dead as a huge fire fanned by strong winds raged for two days on the Cyprus island.

Forestries Department Director Charalambos Alexandrou, described the fire to the local Omega TV as the worst on record:

“It is the worst forest fire in the history of Cyprus.”

The blaze which started around midday on Saturday, has affected at least 10 communities in Troodos mountain range, an area of densely vegetated shrubland and pine forest.

Authorities are yet to ascertain the cause of the blaze adding that rescue efforts had been made.