Firefighters in Greece have made progress against a wildfire that has ravaged areas near Athens for five days. Easing winds have allowed aerial support to resume, with over 30 aircraft joining 575 firefighters in battling the blaze. However, the situation remains precarious, as scattered hotspots could reignite with changing weather conditions.
The destruction has been severe, particularly in villages like Porto Germeno, where many homes have been destroyed. Authorities are now assessing the damage, and police have set up checkpoints to control access to affected areas. This incident highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in Greece, exacerbated by climate change.
As temperatures are expected to rise again, the greater Athens region and surrounding areas remain under a near-maximum fire risk. Experts warn that the period until late August is critical, with the potential for further devastating fires.
The human cost has been tragic, with five firefighters losing their lives in recent incidents. Arrests have been made, including a local mayor, as investigations continue into the causes of these fires, which are believed to be linked to negligence and faulty infrastructure. This crisis serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by Mediterranean countries amid climate change.
Source: France 24
