Are Wildfires Devastating Greece, Leading to Mass Evacuations?
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Synopsis
Wildfires are ravaging Greece, leading to mass evacuations. With extreme winds and heat, the situation is dire. Discover the latest updates on the destruction and the ongoing firefighting efforts amid this environmental crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Greece is experiencing widespread wildfires.
- Evacuations are taking place in multiple regions.
- Extreme weather conditions are complicating firefighting efforts.
- Significant damage has been inflicted on homes and agricultural lands.
- Community support is crucial in times of crisis.
Athens, Aug 13 (NationPress) Greece is currently confronting a series of wildfires across the nation, which have resulted in widespread evacuations and significant destruction to homes, farmland, and industrial facilities. The combination of extreme heat and strong winds is severely complicating firefighting efforts.
In the last 24 hours, there have been 82 wildfires, with 23 still actively burning by the end of Tuesday. Gale-force winds, reaching up to nine on the Beaufort scale, have intensified the fires. The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has mobilized firefighters, forest rangers, aircraft, and volunteers from across the country to combat the blazes, as reported by Xinhua citing the Greek official news agency AMNA.
In the western region of Achaia, a significant fire near the industrial zone of Patras has led to repeated emergency alerts and the evacuation of over 20 settlements.
According to state television ERT, numerous industrial sites, residential properties, and agricultural lands have been affected, with at least three individuals receiving treatment for burns or respiratory issues. Heavy smoke has raised alarms at the nearby Agios Stefanos prison, while three Coast Guard vessels and private boats remain on standby for potential sea rescues, with traffic on major highways halted.
On the eastern Aegean island of Chios, the flames have engulfed forests and agricultural land, affecting villages in the Volissos area. ERT reported the evacuation of six villages and three settlements, including a camp for individuals with disabilities. Coast Guard units and private boats have successfully rescued dozens from the beaches, although several houses and an olive oil mill have been destroyed.
On Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea, three active fire fronts spanning over 15 km have necessitated the evacuation of the villages of Agalas and Keri, along with nearby tourist facilities. The fires have claimed multiple homes, farm structures, and livestock, while helicopters have faced challenges due to wind and rugged terrain.
Wildfires in Vonitsa, in western Greece, and the Preveza region have also inflicted damage on agricultural lands, olive groves, stables, and warehouses.
Greece has been grappling with intense heat and drought in recent weeks. These conditions, coupled with strong winds, have accelerated the rapid spread of wildfires.
Point of View
It is crucial to present the facts surrounding the wildfires in Greece with integrity. The rapid spread of these fires due to extreme weather conditions highlights the urgent need for climate action and support for affected communities. Our commitment is to provide accurate information and help raise awareness about this pressing issue.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the wildfires in Greece?
The wildfires in Greece are primarily fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, which have created favorable conditions for the rapid spread of fires.
How many evacuations have been ordered?
Thousands of residents have been evacuated from more than 20 settlements across Greece as a precautionary measure.
What areas are most affected by the wildfires?
The regions of Achaia, Chios, and Zakynthos have been significantly impacted, with multiple homes and agricultural lands destroyed.
What is being done to combat the wildfires?
Firefighters, forest rangers, and volunteers have been mobilized, and aerial support has been deployed to combat the wildfires.
What can be done to help those affected?
Support can be provided through donations to local relief organizations and by raising awareness about the situation.
