- Firefighters west of Athens raced to exploit a break in high winds on Tuesday, working to strengthen containment lines as forecasters warned that stronger gusts and rising temperatures would return in the coming days.
- Several fires that burned through mountain communities and coastal areas west of the Greek capital were brought under control overnight; planes and helicopters dumped water inside contained perimeters while winds stayed calm.
- Costas Tsingas, head of the Greek Firefighters Association, warned: “There is a huge fire load in the area and the risk goes up as the day progresses.”
- On Tuesday, crews were working against the clock because winds typically pick up in the afternoon, a common coastal phenomenon in the Mediterranean; the army deployed tracked earth movers to carve fire breaks and specialist units extinguished smoldering embers.
- Authorities say 33 people were arrested between June 29 and Aug. 2 for starting fires, including 30 through negligence and three on suspicion of arson; most negligence cases involved farm work despite local bans, including prohibited welding.
Firefighters in Greece are battling fast-moving wildfires near Athens, with conditions expected to worsen due to rising temperatures and stronger winds. Over 1,000 people have been evacuated from affected areas, including the seaside resort of Porto Germeno, as crews work tirelessly to contain the flames.1
The fires, which have been burning for five days, were reportedly ignited by a faulty power line from a nearby wind farm. Authorities have arrested 33 individuals for fire-related offenses, including negligence and arson. Most negligence cases stem from prohibited farm work, such as welding, conducted despite local bans.
On Tuesday, firefighters took advantage of a brief lull in winds to strengthen containment lines, while planes and helicopters dropped water on hot spots. Costas Tsingas, head of the Greek Firefighters Association, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is a huge fire load in the area and the risk goes up as the day progresses.” The army has also deployed tracked earth movers to create fire breaks, while specialist units are working on foot to extinguish smoldering embers.23456
As the Mediterranean summer heats up, winds are expected to pick up in the afternoons, complicating firefighting efforts. Authorities are on high alert as they strive to prevent further evacuations and protect communities from the advancing flames.
“Several fires in mountain communities and coastal areas west of Athens were brought under control overnight; planes and helicopters doused hot spots while winds stayed calm. Costas Tsingas, head of the Greek Firefighters Association, warned: “There is a huge fire load in the area and the risk goes up as the day progresses.””
CP24
