Wildfires prompt evacuations as they menance Greek capital | Climate Crisis Update

Wildfires Threaten Towns Around Athens, Prompting Evacuations

Towns and villages surrounding Athens are under threat as wildfires continue to rage, prompting widespread evacuations in the Greek capital. The blaze, fueled by record temperatures, has forced authorities to order the evacuation of hospitals, monasteries, and numerous residential areas.

The fire, burning on multiple fronts, has proven challenging for firefighters, particularly in hard-to-reach mountainous regions northeast of Athens. Despite their valiant efforts, the flames quickly spread to Mount Penteli, prompting urgent evacuation orders and warnings from officials.

With over 670 firefighters and 27 specialized teams battling the inferno, support from the armed forces and water-dropping planes has been essential. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has returned to oversee response efforts and prevent a tragedy like the deadly 2018 fire in Mati.

The increasing intensity of wildfires in Europe is attributed to climate change, with Greece experiencing its hottest months on record. As temperatures soar, the country remains on high alert, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to combat the escalating threat of wildfires.