- A fast-moving wildfire has reached Athens’ northern suburbs, leading to mass evacuations.
- Over 670 firefighters and multiple aircraft are battling the blaze amid worsening conditions.
- The fire has caused significant damage and disrupted hospitals and local communities.
A severe wildfire has swept through areas on the outskirts of Athens, forcing evacuations from several towns and at least three hospitals.
The wildfire is exacerbated by exceptionally hot and dry weather, a consequence of climate change that has resulted in frequent and intense fires across Greece this summer.
Athens Braces for Wildfire Threat as Blaze Intensifies and Spreads
A raging wildfire has surged to the edges of Athens, with flames threatening residential areas and leading to large-scale evacuations. The fire, fueled by strong winds and high temperatures, has reached the village of Grammatiko and the seaside municipality of Nea Makri. As of Monday, the blaze had advanced to the fringes of Athens’ northern suburbs.
Efforts to combat the wildfire include over 670 firefighters, 183 fire engines, and 32 waterbombing planes. Despite these resources, the changing wind patterns have made it difficult to contain the fire, and the extent of the damage is still unfolding. The thick smoke has darkened the sky over Athens, signaling the seriousness of the situation.
The impact on local communities is severe, with multiple hospitals evacuated and residents displaced. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has returned from vacation to oversee the response, recalling the devastating 2018 fires that claimed 104 lives in Mati. Authorities are continuing their efforts to control the fire and protect affected areas.
The wildfire near Athens is a stark reminder of the escalating risks posed by climate change. As firefighting efforts continue, the priority remains to safeguard lives and property from the relentless advance of the flames.
“The blaze, with flames as high as 25 metres (82 feet), had spread ‘like lightning’ due to gale-force winds,” said fire brigade spokesperson Vassilis Vathrakogiannis.
