Greece Battles Multiple Fires; Boeotia Blaze Shows Improvement

Greece's fire services faced a challenging 24 hours, responding to a total of 39 agricultural and forest fires across the country. The most significant effort was directed towards a blaze that erupted near Agios Vlasios in Boeotia late Tuesday afternoon. Strong ground forces, including specialized units and vehicles, worked tirelessly through the night to contain the fire, which was initially reported to be developing away from settlements. By Wednesday morning, the situation in Agios Vlasios showed improvement, with firefighting teams tackling smoldering spots. The operation involved 92 firefighters, five trekking units, and 25 vehicles, supported by the municipality of Levadeia with water tankers and machinery. Aerial support from 14 aircraft and 4 helicopters was deployed until dusk. Two emergency messages were issued via the 112 system to residents in the wider Agios Vlasios and Tsoukalades areas, advising them to be informed or evacuate. The region is classified as having a high fire risk. Elsewhere, a fire in Stefani, Boeotia, also showed improved conditions. This blaze, which started in a difficult-to-access area, involved 85 firefighters, four trekking units, and 28 vehicles, with aerial support from 4 aircraft and 4 helicopters. Additionally, a fire in Helleniko, Salamina, involving low vegetation and waste, was brought under control, with no further risk of expansion, though crews remain on site. Explosions heard during the Salamina fire were attributed to burning batteries and vials, not military materials.