Norway has suffered its worst wildfire disaster since 1945, with nearly 100 homes reduced to ashes. Andreas Samartzis, a Greek immigrant who works just a kilometer from the site of the fire, reports on the tragedy to Greek News and Radio in Florida.
Through his eyes, the obstacles faced by the authorities, the drama of the approximately 350 homeless people, and the heavy psychological climate of the people who lost everything in a few hours are recorded.
How big is the disaster in Norway?
It is the biggest disaster in the last 100 years. Locals say that such a disaster has not happened since 1945.
When and how did the fire start?;
It started on Friday afternoon, around 3:30, from a house. They still don't know the exact cause and the authorities are investigating it. But because there was a very strong wind and the houses were wooden, old and built in the forest, the fire spread very quickly and that's why it got so big.
Who was she? the reaction of principles?
Police and ambulances arrived very quickly. The police immediately sent alerts to residents' mobile phones for an emergency evacuation within a 100-meter radius. However, the first fire truck was about 45 minutes late in responding, arriving at around 4:15.
For what reason;
The road leading to the houses was extremely narrow (only a single car could fit), making it impossible for large fire engines to pass through. Also, due to the gale-force winds, the forces could not easily approach.
They were used aerial media?
At first (around 5:00 pm) only one helicopter was operating, as no one had anticipated the extent of the disaster. Later in the evening (around 8:00 to 9:00 pm instead of twenty), the number of helicopters increased to six. In total, about 100 firefighters with 30 vehicles from the surrounding areas (Oslo, Honefoss, Drammen) were mobilized.
Were there any deaths or injuries?;
Fortunately, no. All residents managed to leave and are in good health. There are some in the hospital as a precaution.
How many houses burned and what are the residents doing now?;
Nearly 100 houses were reduced to ashes. About 350 people were left homeless and are staying in hotels or with neighbors. Many came to the shopping center where I work simply to find food, because they could not meet their basic needs.
What is the biggest problem for owners now?
Home insurance. In Norway, if the contract doesn't clearly state that it covers you against fire, you don't get any compensation.
How did you experience the event?;
The fire was visible within a stone's throw of the shopping center, which is only 1 kilometer away, you could see the flames in the houses when you went out to throw out the trash. "Tragic. I'm saying, how did this happen, how did it turn out like this."
What is the psychological impact of this disaster?;
The psychological situation is very heavy. Most of my colleagues from work lived there. Honestly, it was the best place for me and it's still good that I didn't go, as I had previously thought about buying a house there. It's shocking to see the stories of the people next door, such as a family of four with their dog who were left on the street. Those affected say with despair: "My property is gone, I have to find somewhere else to go, I had built my dream, it turned into ashes... there are no words for them
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