DEVASTATION has swept across Cyprus as the “most destructive” forest fires in the island’s history burned down houses and scorched the landscape.

At least four people have died in the raging infernos which covered 19 square miles in the foothills of the Trodos mountain range in the west of popular holiday island in the Mediterranean.

“We are experiencing the most destructive fire since the founding of the Cyprus republic in both material damage, but also unfortunately in terms of human lives,” said interior minister Nicos Nouris.

The fire began Saturday afternoon and has swept through districts in the southern foothills of the mountains as the country grapples with a blistering heatwave.

Pictures show the horrifying wall of fire burning across the hills as brave fire crews desperately tried to bring the inferno under control.

They were successful in bringing the main fire under control on Sunday as dawn broke over the charred landscape.

However, it is feared strengthening winds could yet propel a resurgence and once again whip up the flames.

The bodies of four people, since identified as Egyptian nationals, were found were found outside the village of Odos.

Phileleftheros newspaper reported their charred remains were found about 400 metres from their burnt-out vehicle.

“It is a tragedy,” President Nicos Anastasiades said on Twitter.

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Cyprus forest fires – Four dead as ‘most destructive’ infernos in island’s history burn down homes and scorch landscape

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