Aspropyrgos fire contained, no homes threatened

Firefighters battled a blaze in low vegetation in the Sofos Aspropyrgos area of Greece on Tuesday, with the fire spreading rapidly due to the challenging terrain and steep slopes. The fire's proximity to Mount Parnitha raised concerns about potential expansion into the mountainous region.

An immediate and robust response was mobilized, with the first fire engine arriving just three minutes after the fire was detected by a surveillance drone. The operation involved a significant deployment of 108 firefighters, including specialized ground units and volunteer teams, supported by 32 fire trucks and up to five helicopters coordinating aerial attacks. Heavy machinery and water tankers from the Attica Region also provided assistance.

Despite the fire's swift movement towards difficult-to-access areas, the combined efforts of ground and air forces managed to quickly contain and suppress the flames, averting a larger disaster. Crucially, the fire did not threaten any residential areas or critical infrastructure. The fire service is now investigating the cause of the incident.

Early indications suggest the fire may have originated in an area containing tires, refuse, and bulky objects. The Directorate for the Investigation of Incendiary Crimes (DAEE) has taken charge of the investigation into the fire's origins.