Greece is grappling with five major wildfires sweeping across the country, forcing evacuations and stretching emergency services as extreme heat continues to fuel the infernos.
One of the most severe fires broke out just 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) north of Athens, prompting authorities to evacuate nearby communities. The acrid scent of burning wood has reached as far as central Athens, underscoring the scale of the emergency.
Greek officials have called for assistance from the European Union as the country struggles to contain the rapidly spreading flames.
The wildfires coincide with a punishing heatwave, with temperatures forecast to soar up to 44°C on Sunday.
Greece’s Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister, Giannis Kefalogiannis, described the situation as dire: “We have injured firefighters, human lives were put at risk, properties have been burned, and forest areas have been destroyed.”
Firefighters, supported by aircraft and ground units, continue to battle the blazes in the face of a challenging terrain and intense heat, while residents in affected areas have been urged to follow evacuation orders.
