Wildfires on the outskirts of Athens, Greece, prompted urgent evacuations as the fires killed at least one person and forced thousands from their homes. So far, the fire burned about 100,000 acres. Authorities continue to evacuate affected areas as the fires spread.
Officials reported that fires started in 40 different locations on Monday, Aug. 12, with flames reaching as high as 82 feet in some areas.
On Tuesday, smoke that covered Athens cleared, but a persistent haze remains. Firefighters, battling fatigue, are focusing on extinguishing hotspots, particularly in the northeastern suburbs of Marathon and Penteli. The response is substantial, with more than 700 firefighters, nearly 200 vehicles and 35 aircraft deployed to combat the flames.
Other European countries sent planes, helicopters and additional resources to help Greece combat the wildfires.
Concerns are growing that Greece might face another catastrophic wildfire season similar to last summer. Those fires severely damaged multiple regions and Athens’ heavily forested national park, known as the city’s “lungs.”
CNN reported a rise in missing persons incidents in Greece, potentially tied to the extreme heat.
Several tourists who vanished in June while hiking were later found dead. Authorities are urging the public to recognize the serious risks associated with the intense heat.