A significant wildfire has engulfed the coastal areas of Palaia Fokaia and Thymari, located approximately 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Athens, resulting in extensive destruction and mass evacuations. The fire, which initially ignited in low vegetation, quickly advanced into populated zones, destroying at least 20 homes and causing structural damage to many others, as local officials reported.
The area is currently engulfed in a summer heatwave, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C, making firefighting efforts particularly challenging. In response, local residents have joined firefighters, airport crews, and forest rangers in combatting the flames, while the coast guard has been deployed for additional support. Emergency alerts via Greece's 112 system have warned residents to evacuate multiple towns and villages as the fire threatens to reach the coast.
To enhance firefighting efforts, Greece has increased its workforce by deploying an additional 18,000 firefighters, supported by volunteers for the remainder of the fire season, which will conclude in October. Earlier this week, wildfires had already destroyed thousands of hectares on Chios Island, where authorities arrested a Georgian woman suspected of starting a fire after accidentally discarding a cigarette.
Witnesses in Thymari reported heart-wrenching experiences, with one resident stating she arrived home only to find it ablaze due to the fierce winds. Others recounted similar losses, while some fortunate families were able to save their homes. As the fire progressed towards Cape Sounion, authorities ordered the evacuation of over 1,000 individuals from endangered areas. Additionally, eleven tourists were rescued from a beach where they were trapped by advancing flames.
Despite evacuation orders, some residents attempted to remain, using garden hoses to defend their properties, a decision that authorities warned could jeopardize their safety and hinder emergency responders. Reports indicated that police rescued at least 40 individuals, including vulnerable children and elderly residents, who were trapped within the perilous conditions.
Local officials have conveyed the dire circumstances, with Babis Galanis, a deputy mayor, indicating that facilities in the municipality were made available for those needing shelter or medical assistance. The head of the Greek fire service has initiated a specialized investigation unit to probe whether the fire was set deliberately. Looking ahead, the Risk Assessment Committee has projected exceptionally high temperatures on Friday, warning of an elevated wildfire risk in the regions of Attica, Evia, the Peloponnese, and northern Aegean.
