A fast-moving wildfire near Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, has forced evacuations due to strong winds making containment difficult.The fire broke out in a mountainous ravine around 8:30pm Saturday (3:30 Sunday AEST), spreading quickly to the plains and burning through brush.While no homes were damaged, several businesses caught fire, prompting residents of Anthoupoli, Filothei, and Galini to evacuate.

A facility housing 157 people with special needs was also evacuated, with 120 able-bodied individuals sheltered in a gym and the remainder in a psychiatric hospital.A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of starting the fire, appearing intoxicated.Flames and explosions were visible in Thessaloniki, with smoke blanketing suburbs and western areas.Over 115 firefighters and 38 fire engines, plus volunteers, battled the blaze, though firefighting planes could not operate at night.Authorities confirmed the fire did not threaten the city directly but remained vigilant.Greece, known for its summer wildfires, faced this incident amid a dry, hot season, with additional blazes burning in Halkidiki and Kilkis.The incident highlights ongoing challenges in managing wildfires in the region.