A major wildfire on the outskirts of Athens was brought under control on Saturday morning, but evacuations in at-risk areas continued as strong winds threatened to reignite the flames.
At least one person, an elderly man, died after being trapped in a burned-out structure in Keratea, southwest of the capital, where the worst of Friday’s fires broke out. The blaze, fanned by wind gusts of up to 80 kph (50 mph), destroyed homes, farmlands, and olive orchards, forcing police to go door to door late at night to ensure residents had evacuated.
The fire brigade confirmed the Keratea fire was contained but warned it was not fully extinguished, with much of the area still smouldering. Images circulating in local media showed gutted houses and charred landscapes.
Other wildfires in the region of Ancient Olympia and on the tourist island of Kefalonia had largely abated by Saturday morning.
Greece, along with other Mediterranean nations, lies in a “wildfire hot spot” identified by scientists, with hot, dry summers fuelling frequent blazes. Experts say climate change has made such fires more intense and destructive in recent years, prompting urgent calls for improved prevention and response strategies.
Large swathes of the Athens region have gone months without significant rainfall, leaving vegetation dangerously dry and highly flammable.
Written By Rodney Mbua
