Toxic cloud from Greek recycling plant fire reaches Athens, residents urged to stay indoors

A toxic cloud from a recycling plant fire in Thessaloniki, Greece, has spread approximately 300 kilometers south to Athens, forcing authorities to advise hundreds of thousands of residents to remain indoors. Firefighters announced the blaze was under control on Monday, but the facility continues to emit smoke due to the flammable nature of the materials burned, including plastics, aluminum, and chemical waste.

The burning materials released dangerous airborne substances such as aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, and furans. These carcinogens can bioaccumulate and persist in the body for years. Environmental engineering professor Dimosthenis Sarigiannis warned of their health risks.

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The fire at the recycling plant is under control.

Residents in Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, have been advised to stay indoors with windows closed, even amidst summer temperatures exceeding 32 degrees Celsius. The toxic smoke, carried by northeasterly winds, has affected the city's western areas, with inhabitants reporting a pervasive smell of burning plastic and irritation for children.

The toxic plume has now reached the Attica region, surrounding Athens. A chemistry professor from the University of Athens highlighted the danger posed by PM2.5 microparticles, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems upon inhalation.

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We were left to suffocate. We closed the windows, but the smell of burning plastic has seeped through the walls. The children cough, the air irritates their eyes.