Fire in Oinoi, Attica: Conditions improve, firefighters battle multiple hotspots

Firefighters have improved the situation battling a forest fire near Oinoi, Attica, Greece, with significant reinforcements working on multiple active hotspots. The blaze ignited in dry grass and spread to a forest area in Sfaka, near Oinoi. The mayor of Mandra suggested a discarded cigarette from a passing vehicle might have started it, citing witness accounts.

More than 210 firefighters, including 10 ground teams, are on site. They are supported by 45 vehicles and numerous volunteers and Civil Protection groups. Twenty-nine aerial assets, comprising 19 aircraft and 10 helicopters, conducted water drops until dusk, with two coordinating the operation. Water tankers from the Attica Region and the Mandra-Eidyllia municipality are assisting. Construction machinery is also clearing firebreaks.

The coordination of all forces is managed by the mobile operational center "Olympus." A drone surveillance unit is also operating in the area to enhance aerial monitoring. So far, no residences or critical infrastructure have been threatened. The Civil Protection issued an alert via the 112 emergency number around 4 PM.

Traffic remains disrupted on the old Elefsina-Thiva national road. Specifically, traffic is halted on the old Athens-Thiva national road from the Oinoi-Porto Germeno ring road towards Elefsina, and from the Linardos tavern towards Vilia. Traffic is also stopped at the Mandra (Cyclon) roundabout towards Thiva. Suburban railway services have also been modified. Emergency medical services (EKAV) are on standby, and the Hellenic Coast Guard has been mobilized.

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We have seen the nightmare with the flames again.