UPDATE- Major wildfire prompts evacuation of over 5,000 residents, tourists in eastern Crete

ATHENS (AA) - A major wildfire that broke out Wednesday in eastern Crete prompted the evacuation of more than 5,000 residents and tourists as of Thursday, according to public broadcaster ERT.

The fire caused significant damage to businesses, farmlands and houses in the province Ierapetra, authorities and witnesses said.

The media, authorities and business owners are anxious about the cancellation of bookings.

Though hundreds of firefighters and volunteers, assisted with aerial vehicles, are working selflessly to bring the fire under control. Strong wind continues to fan the flames and contribute to the expansion of the fire.

Another blaze that erupted later in the area of Rafina, east of Athens, continues to rage after expanding to houses, farmlands and vineyards.

Thick smoke from the blaze briefly disturbed air traffic at the Athens International Airport, and caused the closure of Marathonos Avenue, a major road connecting the area to Athens, in both directions, added ERT.