Greece Battles Major Wildfire Near Athens As Heatwave Triggers Evacuations

A large wildfire has broken out near the coastal town of Palaia Fokaia, 40 km south of Athens, Greece, prompting evacuation orders for five communities as temperatures approach 40 degrees Celsius during the country’s first heatwave of the summer. Approximately 130 firefighters, supported by two dozen firefighting aircraft and helicopters, are battling the blaze, which has damaged several homes and caused thick smoke to spread across the region. Authorities have evacuated around 40 people, with coastguard vessels and private boats on standby to assist further evacuations by sea if needed. The fire, fanned by strong winds, threatens the nearby Sounion National Park and has led to road closures along the coastal route to the ancient temple of Poseidon. This wildfire follows recent fires in Greece, including a major one on the Aegean island of Chios where a state of emergency was declared, highlighting the increased risk of wildfires exacerbated by climate change and extreme summer temperatures. Greece has invested heavily in firefighting resources this year, increasing personnel to a record 18,000 and acquiring new equipment to manage an anticipated difficult wildfire season.