Thousands Evacuated as Wildfires Rage Across Greece, France, Spain, and Turkey

Greece is on the highest state of alert as extensive wildfires continue to rage across the country, with the capital, Athens, facing the most critical threat. The Civil Protection Authority has issued a red-level warning for the greater Athens area, signaling the extreme risk of fire.

The most severe situation is unfolding about 60 kilometers northwest of Athens, where flames have spread across several kilometers. Reports indicate that ships have been used to evacuate hundreds of people from the affected coastal areas. Fires have also impacted the Peloponnese peninsula, and a new blaze west of Athens prompted the precautionary evacuation of the suburb of Dasos due to smoke and flames threatening densely populated regions.

Meanwhile, in southern France, a wildfire reignited in the Var department, between Marseille and Cannes, forcing the evacuation of approximately 2,500 people. The fire spread rapidly, consuming about 1,000 hectares within hours. Over 720 firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze, which was fueled by high temperatures and dry conditions.

Spain and Turkey are also battling significant wildfires. In Turkey, hundreds of firefighters are working to control blazes in the southwest, with strong winds complicating their efforts. Since Wednesday, Turkish firefighters have responded to 218 fires. Scientists increasingly point to climate change as a driving force behind the heightened frequency and intensity of such devastating fires globally.