Fiery hell in Attica-Boeotia: Kithaironas ablaze, Psatha evacuated, critical front in Veniza

Wildfires are raging for a second day across Greece's Attica and Boeotia regions, devastating vast swathes of land. Initial estimates suggest over 65,000 acres have already been consumed by flames in the major forest fires affecting Boeotia and Porto Germeno in Attica.

The situation is particularly critical in Kithaironas, where the fire is out of control, and in Veniza. The fire's spread has been fueled by extremely difficult conditions, including powerful, gusting winds that have made it impossible for aerial firefighting units to safely conduct water drops or refills. This has forced ground crews to bear the brunt of the firefighting efforts.

Two firefighters have been hospitalized with health issues sustained during their efforts to combat the blaze in Boeotia. The Fire Service's Deputy Spokesperson, Giannis Artopoios, described the upcoming night as "very difficult," with only ground forces operating. He expressed hope that wind intensity would decrease overnight, aiding the firefighters' containment efforts.

To protect residential areas and control active fire fronts, ground forces remain fully deployed. Support has been provided by a special unit and heavy machinery from the Hellenic National Defence General Staff for creating firebreaks, alongside resources from the Attica and Central Greece regions. Greek Police are managing traffic and facilitating resident evacuations. Several settlements have been evacuated, and numerous citizens were rescued by sea as the flames continue to threaten new areas.

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a very difficult night