Two dead, 500 evacuated as twin wildfires rage on Greek island

Two people have died and approximately 500 residents and visitors were evacuated by sea following two separate wildfires that erupted simultaneously on the Greek island of Salamina, near Athens. The blazes broke out minutes apart on Sunday afternoon, driven by strong, gusting winds that quickly fanned the flames through residential and wooded areas.

The first fire started in Peristeria in the island's south around 2:40 p.m. local time, spreading rapidly toward nearby homes. About 20 minutes later, a second fire was reported in the eastern town of Selinia. Officials have not yet determined the cause of either incident. The island, home to about 37,000 people, many of whom are elderly, had been placed at high wildfire risk due to the gale-force winds.

Firefighting crews, supported by aircraft and water tankers, are working to contain the fires and prevent them from merging. Two bodies were discovered in Peristeria, and the local mayor indicated they are believed to be a couple. At least 10 other individuals have been treated for burns or smoke inhalation, with five requiring hospitalization.

While one fire was reported under control by Sunday evening and the evacuation operation concluded, scattered fires persisted in the Peristeria area. Crews continue to monitor the situation, with additional vessels stationed to provide assistance. These fires on Salamina are occurring amidst a broader pattern of intense wildfires across Europe, with significant blazes also reported in Belgium, France, the UK, Germany, and Croatia.

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These conditions enabled the fire to quickly reach dangerous proportions and spread rapidly within seven minutes toward nearby residential areas.