A massive forest fire has broken out in the easte part of the Greek island of Crete.

Foreign media reported that thousands of people are being evacuated due to this.

However, strong winds have hampered firefighting efforts, causing severe damage to homes and businesses, foreign media further stated.

The fire, which broke out in the Achlia area of ​​the island of Crete, is reportedly spreading rapidly through forests and mountainous terrain.

Foreign media reported that about 5,000 people have been evacuated from the area so far.

The majority of those evacuated are reported to be foreign tourists staying in hotels there.

Authorities said that the damage caused by this is extensive and that homes, forests, hotels, and businesses have been destroyed in both coastal and inland areas.