Greece on Red Code for Very High Fire Risk in Seven Regions on Thursday

Greece is bracing for a severe fire risk on Thursday, with the National Civil Protection Mechanism entering a state of heightened alert, known as Red Code. The country's Fire Risk Forecast Map has predicted a very high risk, Category 4, across large swathes of the nation, prompting immediate action from authorities.

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The National Civil Protection Mechanism is on high alert (Red Code) on Thursday, as the Fire Risk Forecast Map predicts a very high risk (Category 4) for large areas of the country.

All relevant services have been notified, and regional and municipal bodies are being instructed to convene their operational units. This coordinated effort aims to ensure a swift and effective response to potential blazes. The Fire Service has issued a press release detailing the operational readiness for the heightened risk, which specifically targets several key areas.

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All relevant services have already been informed, while the Regions and Municipalities are called upon to immediately convene their operational bodies for the full coordination of forces.

The very high fire risk is concentrated in seven regions. These include the Attica region, encompassing the island of Kythira, and the island of Crete. The Peloponnese region faces risk in the Corinthia, Argolida, Arcadia, and Laconia prefectures. In Central Greece, the prefectures of Boeotia, Phthiotis, Phocis, and Euboea (including the island of Skyros) are on alert. The North Aegean region is affected in the prefectures of Lesbos, Chios, Samos, and Ikaria, while the South Aegean region's Cyclades islands are also at high risk.

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Very high risk 4 in: Attica & Kythira, Evia & Skyros, Boeotia, Corinthia...

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has issued a stern warning to the public, imploring citizens to refrain from any outdoor activities that could inadvertently cause a fire. Specifically, the burning of dry vegetation, the use of machinery that produces sparks, outdoor grilling, and smoking bees are prohibited or strongly discouraged. The public is reminded to immediately call the Fire Service at 199 or the European emergency number 112 if they spot smoke or fire, and to follow official instructions.

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Avoid any work or activity in the countryside that could cause a fire through negligence.