On the northern fringes of the Greek capital, Athens, a major forest fire is currently raging out of control. The fire, which began on Sunday afternoon about 35 kilometers from Athens, has prompted a massive response from firefighters and emergency services.
As of Monday morning, hundreds of firefighters, supported by over two dozen water-dropping planes, are battling the blaze. Evacuation orders have been issued for more than a dozen areas, including Marathon and several Athens suburbs. A children's hospital and a military hospital have been evacuated, and authorities are providing shelter for evacuees in sports halls and hotels.
Reports indicate that two firefighters sustained minor injuries, while several civilians have been treated for smoke inhalation. The fire has blanketed the center of Athens with smoke, darkening the sky and posing a significant threat to residents.
The fire's rapid spread has been fueled by strong winds and dry conditions following a series of heatwaves this summer. Greece experienced its hottest June and July on record this year, with meteorologists and government officials warning of heightened wildfire risks due to ongoing weather conditions.
Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias declared a 'red alert' for wildfire hazard in half of the country. More than 500 firefighters, including specialized wildfire combat teams, are on the front lines, supported by a fleet of water-dropping aircraft.
Authorities are urging residents to heed evacuation orders to ensure their safety and that of emergency responders. The fire department emphasized the dangers posed by the fire and the importance of following official directives to prevent further harm.
Wildfires are a common occurrence in Greece during the hot, dry summer months, but officials attribute the increasing frequency and severity of fires to climate change. Tragic incidents in recent years, such as the 2018 Mati fire that claimed over 100 lives, underscore the urgent need for proactive wildfire prevention and response measures.
Efforts to contain the current forest fire near Athens are ongoing, with authorities bracing for challenging conditions in the hours ahead. The collective response of firefighters, volunteers, and emergency services is crucial in mitigating the impact of this devastating blaze.
