Is Greece Seeking EU Help as Wildfires Devastate Its Landscape?
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Synopsis
Greece faces a severe wildfire crisis as the EU is called upon for support. With multiple fronts ablaze and evacuation alerts in place, the nation grapples with the threat of devastation. As firefighters work tirelessly, the risk of fire spread rises due to soaring temperatures and strong winds. Can Greece overcome this challenge with EU assistance?
Key Takeaways
- Greece has sought assistance from the EU in combating ongoing wildfires.
- Over 50 wildfires are currently raging across the country.
- Evacuations have been initiated in several areas as a precaution.
- No casualties have been reported despite numerous wildfires.
- Authorities urge the public to exercise caution amidst rising temperatures and winds.
Athens, July 27 (NationPress) Greece has formally sought aid from the European Union (EU) Civil Protection Mechanism to tackle a series of wildfires that are currently wreaking havoc across the nation, as reported by local broadcaster Mega Channel.
The request encompasses the deployment of six water-dropping aircraft aimed at addressing five to six significant wildfire fronts that are ablaze simultaneously in various areas of the eastern Mediterranean country. Reports indicate that the EU mechanism has approved this request, as per the Xinhua news agency citing Mega Channel.
The most alarming fire ignited early Saturday afternoon near Kryoneri, a village located north of Athens at the base of Mt. Parnitha. A firefighting contingent of 145 personnel, bolstered by 44 vehicles and numerous volunteers alongside municipal water tankers, has been dispatched to the affected area. By nightfall, at least 17 firefighting aircraft were actively engaged, according to Greek news outlet To Vima.
Additional wildfires were noted earlier Saturday on the Aegean island of Kythira, in the Messinia prefecture of southern Peloponnese, central Evia Island, at the Temenia site in Chania prefecture on Crete, and later in the Molaous district of Laconia in southeastern Greece.
Authorities have expressed concern regarding the fire north of Athens, which appeared particularly hazardous by dusk. This area has a history of severe wildfires, with the most recent incident occurring in August 2021.
Earlier this month, firefighters in Greece were engaged in battling more than 50 wildfires nationwide, while authorities issued warnings of increased danger due to a rising heatwave and strong winds.
Evacuation alerts have been initiated in several locations as a precaution, according to the Fire Service.
Despite over 1,000 wildfires recorded since early June, no casualties have been reported thus far, as stated by Costas Tsigkas, head of the Association of Greek Firefighter Officers. In statements to state broadcaster ERT, Tsigkas urged the public to remain vigilant, as escalating temperatures and high winds greatly enhance the risk of rapid fire spread.
Since the start of the official fire season on May 1, over 190 individuals have been apprehended in connection with wildfires, with 125 charged for negligence, such as burning vegetation or utilizing equipment that can emit sparks, according to the Fire Service.
Point of View
I stand firm in support of Greece during this challenging time. The wildfires not only threaten lives and property but also the environment that we cherish. Our resolve and cooperation with international partners like the EU are crucial in overcoming this crisis and ensuring the safety of our communities.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the wildfires in Greece?
The wildfires in Greece have been fueled by an intense heatwave and strong winds, leading to a heightened risk of fire outbreaks.
How many wildfires are currently active in Greece?
As of now, there are over 50 active wildfires across Greece, with multiple fronts burning simultaneously in various regions.
What assistance is Greece requesting from the EU?
Greece is seeking assistance from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, specifically requesting six water-dropping aircraft to combat the ongoing wildfires.
Have there been any casualties reported due to the wildfires?
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported despite the occurrence of over 1,000 wildfires since the beginning of June.
What precautions are being taken in affected areas?
Evacuation alerts have been issued in several locations as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of residents in fire-prone areas.
