Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Greece remains on high alert for wildfires as firefighters respond to dozens of new incidents amid extreme weather conditions and strong winds forecast to continue on Friday, August 14.
According to the Greek Fire Department, 40 agroforestry fires broke out on Thursday, August 13, several in areas classified as having very high or extreme fire danger. More than 500 fires have been recorded since August 1, while the total since the beginning of the current fire season is approaching 2,700 incidents.
One of the most serious fires still being tackled late Thursday was in Siviri, Halkidiki, where a large firefighting operation was underway in a forest area with low vegetation.
Some 155 firefighters, including four forest commando teams, were deployed alongside 57 vehicles. The operation also included nine aircraft and seven helicopters, while firefighters from Moldova were assisting as part of a European pre-deployment program.
Halkidiki. Photo: Shutterstock
Authorities issued four 112 emergency messages during the Halkidiki incident, mainly to facilitate evacuations. Fire Department, Coast Guard and private boats helped move 481 people to safety, with 285 taken to Sani beach and another 196 transported to the Speed Runner Jet.
By Thursday evening, officials said the situation in Halkidiki was improving, although firefighters remained active around the affected area.
Another significant response took place in Acharnes, Attica, where a fire broke out near the Kapota camp in an area under Category 5, or extreme, fire risk. Seventy-three firefighters, 25 vehicles, three forest commando teams and two helicopters were mobilized. A 112 alert was issued shortly after the fire started, and the blaze was subsequently extinguished.
Other fires reported Thursday in Kalamos, Stratos, Ofrynio, Mamoulada, Ancient Olympia, Makynia and Akontio were either quickly brought under control or reported without an active front.
The Fire Department warned that conditions could become particularly challenging on Friday, with very strong and occasionally storm-force winds capable of helping fires start and spread rapidly.
Six regions were classified at Category 5 extreme fire risk on Thursday: Attica, Boeotia, Evia, Argolis, Corinth and Lesbos. Halkidiki was among the areas under Category 4, very high risk.
Authorities said Category 4 areas will receive the same increased preparedness as Category 5 areas on Friday. Firefighting forces will be distributed across high risk locations, while aerial surveillance, drones and mobile drone units will be used to detect new fires as quickly as possible.
The authorities are also increasing patrols and controls in forests, national parks and other vulnerable areas where access restrictions may apply.
For residents and visitors, the Fire Department is urging extreme caution and asking people to avoid activities in the countryside that could produce sparks or flames. Anyone who sees smoke or a fire should immediately contact the Fire Department at 199 or the European emergency number 112.
For tourists in Greece, particularly those visiting Halkidiki, Attica, Evia, the Peloponnese or other high-risk areas, conditions can change quickly. Visitors should monitor official 112 alerts and local authority instructions and be prepared to change travel plans if a wildfire develops nearby.