The civil protection authority said Thursday it asked for six water-dropping aircraft, and Spain and France have responded by offering two planes each.

More than 300 firefighters, army conscripts and volunteers are battling the flames in the northeastern Evros area, assisted by seven aircraft and nearly 50 fire engines.

The fire broke out Wednesday and has destroyed more than 2,500 hectares (6,175 acres) of forest, while forcing the evacuation of a hamlet. No injuries have been reported.

Police have arrested a local farmer suspected of accidentally starting the blaze.