Greece Deploys Record 18,000 Firefighters Ahead of Wildfire Season

Greece is preparing for an intense wildfire season by deploying a record 18,000 firefighters, the highest number in its history, supported by thousands of volunteers and international assistance. This decision comes after a series of devastating wildfires in recent years, fueled by increasingly hot and dry weather attributed to climate change, with 2024 being the hottest year on record globally. Officials warn that, despite a seemingly milder start to the year, severe scenarios remain possible, and more than 1,300 fires have already been reported in early spring. To bolster its response, Greece is not only increasing manpower but also investing 2 billion euros in new technology, including nearly double the number of surveillance drones and additional aircraft and meteorological stations. The government has also shifted strategy to prioritize rapid deployment of aerial and ground teams in the first critical hours of an outbreak and increase patrols for early detection. These comprehensive measures aim to mitigate the impact of wildfires as the official season begins on May 1.