ATHENS, Greece: Greece is grappling with a severe wildfire crisis near Athens, prompting urgent evacuations of hospitals and residential areas.
On Monday, authorities ordered the evacuation of additional communities as the fires, despite “superhuman” efforts by firefighters, continued to spread rapidly. The flames have reached Mount Pentelicus and are moving towards Penteli, threatening two hospitals in the area—a children’s hospital and a military facility.
The fire brigade has mobilized 510 firefighters, 152 vehicles, and 29 aircraft to combat the blazes. Despite these efforts, the intense heat and strong winds have exacerbated the situation. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis returned to Athens from his holiday to address the crisis, as the fire brigade struggled to manage the multiple fires ignited over the past 24 hours.
Residents from several towns, including Marathon and Polydendri village, have been forced to flee. The damage has been extensive, with reports of destroyed olive groves and other properties. Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias had previously warned of high fire risks due to soaring temperatures, wind gusts, and drought conditions.
The current crisis reflects a broader trend exacerbated by climate change. Greece’s record-breaking temperatures and prolonged summer heatwaves have intensified the wildfire season. Scientists highlight that fossil fuel emissions contribute to increased frequency and severity of heatwaves and wildfires globally, impacting vulnerable regions like Greece.
