A major crisis unfolds as wildfires engulf the region surrounding Patras, Greece's third-largest city, amidst an unprecedented heatwave sweeping across southern Europe. With temperatures soaring above 38°C and powerful winds propelling flames, the fires have advanced promptly into urban areas, prompting urgent evacuations, including a children's hospital.
In just two days, nearly 10,000 hectares have been devastated in the Achaia region. This catastrophic event has led to entire villages being deserted, numerous residences and businesses reduced to ashes, and over 500 vehicles obliterated at a customs yard.
Desperate scenes have emerged in Patras, where the streets were largely empty while residents observed the looming threat from the surrounding mountains. Smoke has engulfed the city, exacerbating health issues for some citizens, requiring hospitalization due to breathing difficulties. Evacuation orders were given to residents of a nearby town, while alerts were issued for additional villages, highlighting the widespread danger posed by the fire.
In response to the escalating situation, Greece has sought assistance from the EU for water-bombing aircraft to support more than 4,800 firefighters battling over 20 wildfires nationwide. Meanwhile, the wildfire emergency extends beyond Greece, affecting various regions in Europe.
Portugal has deployed 1,800 firefighters to combat five major blazes, while Spain has reported casualties linked to the ongoing heatwave, including two firefighters who lost their lives in their struggle against the flames. In a politically charged atmosphere, remarks from officials concerning the heatwave have sparked controversy, amplifying tensions within regional leadership.
The fires have devastated vast areas, with statistics indicating that nearly 99,000 hectares have been scorched across Greece in 2023 alone, a stark contrast to last year's figures at the same point in time. The threat of arson looms over many outbreaks, creating anxiety within affected communities.
As neighboring countries grapple with similar conditions, Albania witnesses critical wildfire challenges with 24 active fires forcing evacuations, while Italy manages a five-day fire on Mount Vesuvius amid extreme heat warnings.
With climate change contributing to the rising frequency and intensity of such events, experts urge global awareness and action to combat the gradual escalation of wildfires across Europe.
