Greece Declares Fire-Hit Areas Disaster Zones, Approves Aid Package

Greece is swiftly responding to the devastating wildfires that swept through the country in July and August 2026, designating multiple regions as disaster zones. This declaration immediately activates crucial housing assistance and subsidies for temporary shelter, aiming to support citizens and local communities grappling with the aftermath.

The government has committed a substantial financial package of approximately 9.79 million euros to aid in the recovery efforts. This includes 9.54 million euros earmarked for free state assistance and the costs associated with property inspections, alongside 246,000 euros dedicated to subsidizing temporary housing solutions for displaced residents.

The aid package covers affected areas across seven Regional Units. In Thessaloniki, the municipal communities of Evkarpia and Melissochori are included. Achaia's affected areas include municipal communities within the municipalities of Aegialeia and West Achaia. Boeotia's designated zones are within the municipality of Thebes, while Phocis includes areas in the municipality of Dorida. West Attica's affected communities are in the municipalities of Mandra-Eidyllia and Megara, and Argolis's affected community is in the municipality of Argos-Mycenae. Finally, in Rethymno, several municipal communities within the municipality of Agios Vasilios are covered.

For the designated areas, residents will receive housing assistance for the reconstruction or repair of damaged buildings. This assistance is fully state-funded, requiring no personal contribution or state-guaranteed loan. Reconstruction of homes can receive up to 1,000 euros per square meter, with comparable support for other building types and repairs, depending on the extent of the damage. Additionally, a temporary housing subsidy will be provided to households.