A massive wildfire that erupted on August 11 near Athens, Greece, has been largely brought under control after three days of intense firefighting efforts. The blaze, described as the ‘largest fire of the year’ by Nikos Lavranos, president of the Greek Firefighters Federation, has devastated over 10,000 hectares of land, equivalent to 14,000 football fields.The fire claimed at least one life, with a 64-year-old woman found dead in a shop in the suburb of Vrilissia. Over 60 people have been injured, including firefighters. The blaze forced the evacuation of thousands of residents from at least 11 towns, as well as three hospitals and two monasteries.Greek Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias reported that 702 firefighters, 199 vehicles, and 35 aircraft were involved in combating the fire. International support has poured in, with several European countries, including France, Italy, Turkey, and Romania, sending firefighters, aircraft, and equipment.While the situation has improved due to weakening winds, authorities remain on high alert. A fire department spokesperson stated, ‘The situation has improved, but there are still isolated fires’. The Greek government has announced aid and compensation measures for those affected, including rent subsidies, tax exemptions, and financial assistance.Climate change has been cited as a contributing factor to the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires in Greece. The country is experiencing its hottest summer on record, following the warmest winter ever recorded and a prolonged period of drought. Efthymios Lekkas, a professor of natural disaster management at the University of Athens, warned that Greece is facing a ‘new normality’ of extreme natural disasters and unpredictable weather patterns.As Greece continues to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating fire, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change and the need for enhanced preparedness and international cooperation in disaster response.
Key points
- Massive wildfire near Athens, Greece, largely brought under control after burning over 10,000 hectares.
- One death confirmed, over 60 injured, and thousands evacuated due to the fire.
- International aid from several European countries has arrived to support Greek firefighting efforts.
- Climate change cited as a contributing factor to increased wildfire frequency and intensity in Greece.
Contradictions👾While most sources report one confirmed death, some mention the possibility of more casualties.
The exact number of evacuees and injured individuals varies slightly across reports.
