Two large forest fires are burning this Sunday near Athens, the capital of Greece, where authorities sent emergency messages for some residents to evacuate and others to stay home with the windows closed to protect themselves from the smoke.
The first firesoutheast of Athens, the capital of Greece, began early this Sunday afternoon. Local authorities indicated that the fire has burned at least four houses and several carsalthough there have been no victims until late Sunday afternoon.
The fire was approaching the port of Lavrio, about 60 kilometers southeast of Athens. The area has suffered forest fires in recent years. A small forest to the south, near Cape Sounio, could also be in danger.
Subsequently, a second rapidly evolving fire to the north of Athens, near the suburb of Stamata. It burned through bushes and forests and ascended to the 1,100-meter elevation of Mount Penteli, one of the four mountains surrounding the capital area.
The extinguishing efforts bring together a wide deployment between the heat and the strong wind
Total, 230 firefighters, 17 airplanes and 12 helicopters They have tried to put out both fires, according to the Fire Service. Planes and helicopters can only operate during the day.
He hot and dry climatecombined with strong winds, are helping to spread the fires. It is expected that the temperaturesaround 30°C, increase on Monday and Tuesday.
Forest fires have become a characteristic feature in the Mediterranean area every year. Earlier this month, Greece and Türkiye They suffered major fires.
