Greece is grappling with severe wildfires, particularly affecting the northern fringes of Athens, where hundreds of firefighters, supported by 29 water-dropping planes, are battling flames that have spread rapidly due to extreme heat and strong winds. The fire, which ignited on Sunday in Varnavas, approximately 35 kilometers from the capital, has led to the evacuation of multiple areas, including the historic town of Marathon.
Authorities ordered residents of Marathon to relocate to the neighboring settlement of Nea Makri as smoke from the fire has blanketed large parts of Athens, affecting air quality and health. The situation has escalated to the point where facilities from the Athens Olympic Athletic Center have been repurposed to shelter evacuees.
Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which has already resulted in injuries among civilians and firefighters. The fire department has responded to over 40 wildfires across Greece in the past 24 hours alone, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by climate change, which is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of such wildfires.
With this summer marking the hottest months ever recorded in Greece, officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant as high temperatures and dry conditions continue to elevate wildfire risks across the country.