Wildfires Rage Near Athens, Kill One, Force Evacuations

A large wildfire south-east of Athens has killed at least one elderly man and destroyed houses and farmland, as firefighters battle the blaze amid strong gale-force winds and prolonged drought conditions. The fire, located about 30 to 35 kilometers from the capital, has forced evacuations of several villages, with civil protection authorities declaring the highest level of fire danger across much of the Aegean. Firefighting efforts include the deployment of multiple aircraft and helicopters, as well as reinforcements from other regions, but strong winds of up to 80 km/h continue to hinder containment. Officials warn that the dry conditions make the area extremely susceptible to rapid fire spread, with even small sparks capable of igniting major blazes. Tourist facilities in the vicinity are currently not at risk, but ongoing adverse weather is expected to complicate firefighting operations for several days. Authorities remain vigilant as they monitor the evolving situation and continue evacuation and emergency response measures.