Firefighters get worst blaze since Cyprus’ independence under control

A burned house is seen on Troodos mountain, in Ora village, southwestern Cyprus (Petros Karadjias/AP)

A deadly brush fire that claimed four lives and has been described as the most destructive blaze in Cyprus’ 61-year history as an independent republic is now fully under control, Cypriot authorities said.

Cyprus’ forestry department said more than 600 people managed to contain the blaze early Monday after scorching more than 21 square miles, forcing the evacuation of nine villages and burning down homes, businesses, orchards and forest.