Thousands of holidaymakers and locals have been forced to evacuate parts of the Greek island Rhodes because of wildfires. 

Extreme temperatures on the island over 40C triggered widespread fires across the region, with the countryside on the island burning for the past five days. 

Some four areas in the southeast of the island have been evacuated after winds drove flames towards the coast. 

British holidaymaker Ian Murrison described the chaos of the evacuation. 

“It was literally like it was literally like the end of the world,” he said. 

“The flames were now far more visible - suddenly they were leaking flames into the sky. 

He said evacuation was “incredibly stressful” for him and his family. 

“Particularly when they said women and children [to evacuate],” he said. “I kissed them goodbye [and my wife] thought that might be the last time she saw me.” 

Tourists stand on a beach after being evacuated during a forest fire on the island of Rhodes, Greece, 22/07/2023. Image: Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo

Firefighters from eight European countries are either already helping or are due to arrive soon. 

Local firefighter Ioannis Artopios evacuation of all hotels was carried out without problems. 

“It's estimated that more than 2000 people have been rescued by sea,” he said. 

Flames rise during a forest fire on the island of Rhodes, Greece, 22/07/2023. Image: Argyris Mantikos/Eurokinissi/ Alamy

Holidaymaker Claire Pearsall said no information was given to people on the island personally. 

“We found it out through social media and news reporting,” she said. 

“The whole situation just requires a little bit more communication. As we always see in these situations. communication is key and that seems to be what's lacking.” 

Tourists and locals have been advised to follow the advice of the authorities. 

Additional reporting by IRN.