Greece battles major wildfires across multiple regions

·

Firefighting efforts remained in full force across Greece on Sunday as authorities responded to a series of wildfires that broke out on Saturday, primarily affecting Attica, Evia, Kythera, Messinia and Chania. The blazes have caused significant damage to forested areas and private property.

In Attica, the wildfire near Drosopigi and Kryoneri is currently without an active front, according to the Fire Service. However, crews remain on standby due to the ongoing risk of flare-ups.

A flare-up has been reported in Pissonas, Evia, prompting the activation of the 112 emergency service. Residents of the Pissonas settlement were urged to evacuate and head toward Kathenous. The response includes four aircraft, two helicopters, over 135 firefighters, six Special Forest Operations Units (EMODE), 38 fire engines, 40 regional water tankers, and hundreds of volunteers. Firefighters worked through the night to contain the flames.

wildfire greece
The aftermath of a fire on Evia island on Sunday. Photo: Angelos Tzortzinis/AFP/Getty Images.

In Kythera, 67 firefighters and two forest commando units are operating with 22 fire engines and support from volunteers. Three helicopters and two aircraft are aiding the aerial response.

In Messinia, efforts are concentrated in Polythea, where 100 firefighters, supported by five forest commando units, 30 fire engines, construction machinery, water tankers, and volunteers are deployed. Seven aircraft and one helicopter have been mobilised to battle the flames from the air.

In Temenia, Chania, the situation has improved, but crews are addressing scattered flare-ups within the fire’s perimeter. Around 200 firefighters, 40 fire engines, water trucks, special units and two helicopters are on the ground.

In Molai, Lakonia, 37 firefighters and one ground unit are tackling smaller fires within the blaze’s perimeter. They are supported by 11 fire engines and two helicopters.

Authorities continue to urge vigilance and preparedness as weather conditions remain volatile and the risk of reignition high.

Source: AMNA.gr

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Greece to drill first deepwater offshore well in Ionian Sea

Greece is set to undertake its first deepwater offshore drilling operation after Energean awarded a contract to Stena Drilling.

Major fire at Geelong oil refinery sparks explosions

A large fire continues to burn at the Viva Energy refinery in Geelong after breaking out late Wednesday night, April 15.

Trump claims Strait of Hormuz ‘permanently opening’ as US boosts military presence

Donald Trump has declared the Strait of Hormuz is “permanently opening” following talks with China, as tensions remain high.

Breaking ground, rebuilding trust: Nia Gitsas leads AHEPA Sydney & NSW into new era

A new era is unfolding at AHEPA Sydney & NSW, as Nia Gitsas steps into the presidency - the first woman to lead the organisation in NSW.

Junior students explore internationalism through mural project at Oakleigh Grammar 

Oakleigh Grammar’s Junior School students have explored global citizenship and cultural connectedness through a collaborative mural project.

You May Also Like

On this day in 1922, Greek singer Grigoris Bithikotsis was born

The death of singer and songwriter Grigoris Bithikotsis in 2005, marked the end of an era of great Greek urban folk music.

Archbishop Makarios of Australia issues statement on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament

Archbishop Makarios of Australia has issued a statement on the Indigenous Voice to Federal Parliament on Wednesday.

Sydney Olympic FC secure victory over local rivals Rockdale Ilinden

Sydney Olympic FC secured a 3-1 victory over local rivals Rockdale Ilinden at Rockdale Ilinden Sports Centre on Sunday evening.