Thousands Evacuate as Wildfires Threaten Athens

Thousands of people evacuated their homes near Athens as wildfires, driven by strong winds, threatened the Greek capital. Nearly 700 firefighters battled the flames, with major hospitals on standby and several stadiums opened for evacuees. Record high temperatures and winds worsen the summer wildfire season in Greece, causing emergency measures and high fire risks across Europe.

Thousands of people evacuated their homes around Athens, including the historic town of Marathon, as wildfires driven by strong winds advanced towards the Greek capital.

A 30-kilometer-long frontline of flames, reaching over 25 meters in height, moved closer to Athens.

Nearly 700 firefighters and over 30 aircraft battled the blazes near Mount Pentelikon, with authorities opening several stadiums to house evacuees.

Major hospitals were placed on standby.

One firefighter suffered serious burns and another faced respiratory issues.

The summer wildfire season in Greece has worsened, driven by record high temperatures and winds, reminiscent of the 2018 Mati disaster.

Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias warned of high fire risks due to ongoing weather conditions.

High temperatures and similar wildfire circumstances are affecting other parts of Europe, including France and Italy.