The wildfire burning on the island of Crete continues, with the blaze in the municipality of Agios Vasileios in Rethymno developing into an extremely challenging battle as multiple fronts remain active and strong winds continue to fuel flare-ups.At first light, ground forces were further reinforced. A total of 224 firefighters are operating in the area, supported by 11 specialist wildfire teams from the 3rd, 19th and 6th Special Forest Operation Units (EMODE), 53 vehicles and two helicopters. However, gale-force winds have so far prevented aircraft from taking part in the operation.The firefighting effort is also being supported by water tankers and machinery from Civil Protection authorities, the regional administration and municipalities, as well as dozens of volunteers and residents attempting to protect their properties.Critical situationThe situation remains critical, with authorities keeping all forces on heightened alert after a series of 112 emergency messages were issued overnight ordering further precautionary evacuations.The situation in Sitia seems to have improved, where the fire has been contained in a remote mountainous area and is no longer threatening residential zones.