Greece battles 96 fires in 48 hours, faces high risk

Greece's Fire Service battled 96 rural and forest fires across the country in a demanding 48-hour period, stretching emergency resources. The high number of incidents, many occurring simultaneously in high-risk areas, required the continuous deployment of ground and air forces.

The most significant blaze occurred in Oinoi, Mandra, Attica, a region categorized as high-risk (level 4). This fire involved 210 firefighters, 10 ground teams, and 76 vehicles, supported by 29 aerial assets. An emergency alert was issued to residents. Firefighters are working to contain remaining hotspots, though the situation has improved.

Fires in Drosia Chalkidas, Eleonas Thivas, and Ammoudes Rhodes were quickly contained due to prompt action, preventing them from escalating. However, Central Macedonia faced a particularly challenging situation with 17 fires erupting almost simultaneously, significantly dispersing firefighting forces. Major efforts were concentrated in Oreokastro, Thessaloniki, and Nea Kallikrateia, Chalkidiki.

Despite the pressure, the coordinated response ensured most fires were contained early. Authorities are maintaining vigilance, with a very high fire risk predicted for July 6 in Chios, Samos, Ikaria, Rethymno, Heraklion, and Lasithi. High risk is also expected in Attica and Evia.