Crete in flames; A big fire raging, hundreds of people evacuated; Dramatic images PHOTO/VIDEO

The fire engulfed three fronts, and the fiery element was further intensified by the strong winds that are blowing in the area today, Kattimerini writes.

According to information from the fire services, hundreds of local residents and tourists were evacuated from the threatened areas, following the instructions of the local authorities and the sending of two warnings.

Tourists were moved to hotels in other areas, while some of the evacuees spent the night in the closed sports center in Ierapetra, which was opened as a temporary reception center.

Three people have been hospitalized with respiratory problems and the fire service is continuing a major extinguishing operation using ground and air resources.

As a result of the fire, there were problems with power and signal supply in the affected areas across the island.