Greece battles two major wildfires in Boeotia, issuing evacuation orders

Firefighting forces in Greece are engaged in an intense, overnight battle against two major fire fronts in Boeotia, which continue to threaten populated areas. One front, originating in Xiromi, is moving towards Domvraina, prompting an evacuation alert via the 112 emergency system for residents to move towards Thiva. The second front, which ignited in Kalamaki, is heading towards the Attica region and has reached Porto Germeno.

Multiple evacuation messages were issued for Porto Germeno and surrounding areas, with the 112 system directing residents to move towards the port, then the beach, and in one instance, towards Alepochori and Megara as flames approached the Psatha settlement. Fire and Coast Guard vessels safely evacuated 12 individuals from the Porto Germeno beach.

Currently, 325 firefighters, including 18 special forest firefighting units, along with volunteers and 92 vehicles, are deployed. At first light, 18 aircraft and 7 helicopters began water drops, with one helicopter coordinating the operations. The "DEUCALION" team and an engineering vehicle from the Hellenic National Defence General Staff are working to create firebreaks. The situation is expected to remain difficult, with an extreme fire risk (Category 5) forecast for Attica and Evia, and a very high risk for many other areas nationwide.