Fire Engulfs Abandoned Building in Central Athens; Traffic Disrupted

A significant fire erupted Friday morning in an abandoned four-story building located on 3rd September Street in the heart of Athens, prompting a swift response from emergency services.

The blaze, which began shortly after 9 a.m., is primarily affecting the ground and first floors of the derelict structure. Firefighters are actively working to contain the flames, and initial reports indicate that the fire does not pose an immediate risk of spreading to nearby buildings.

In response to the incident, police have temporarily closed the affected section of 3rd September Street, from the intersection with Halkokondyli Street, to facilitate the firefighting operations and ensure public safety.

Fifteen firefighters, supported by four vehicles and a specialized boom lift, are currently on the scene. The investigative unit for arson crimes in Athens has been mobilized to determine the cause of the fire.