Two Dead, Mass Evacuations as Wildfires Rage on Greek Island of Salamina

Wildfires erupted on the Greek island of Salamina on Sunday, August 16, claiming two lives and injuring nine others. The fires, fanned by strong winds, prompted authorities to issue evacuation orders for hundreds of tourists and residents.

The two victims were discovered near Peristeria beach in the south of the island, where one of the fires continued to burn. Simultaneously, a second blaze ignited in Selinia, a popular tourist area known for its beaches in the east. The flames consumed a pine forest, low vegetation, and residential areas, straining emergency response teams.

Around 200 firefighters, supported by 50 fire engines, six planes, and seven helicopters, are engaged in efforts to prevent the two fire fronts from merging. Volunteer and additional teams from the mainland have been mobilized. The coast guard deployed seven patrol boats, and several private vessels, including ferries, were utilized for evacuations, transporting approximately 90 people to safety by sea.

Salamina, located west of Athens, is a frequent holiday destination for the capital's residents. Greece has been battling a series of wildfires since late July, following a period where it largely avoided the heatwave that affected other parts of Europe.

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The two victims were found near Peristeria beach, in the south of the island of Salamina, an area where one of the fires continues to burn.