Greece Calls for Help as Turkish Planes Take Off Amid Explosions and 25-Meter Flames
Greece Faces Largest Forest Fire of the Summer Near Athens
Greece is currently battling the largest forest fire of the year, with flames reaching some villages and towns near the capital, Athens, as well as its outskirts. The fire, which started on Sunday afternoon in the East Attica region northeast of Athens, has now spread over 100,000 acres and has reached 25 meters in some areas.
Authorities have issued warnings that homes, businesses, and schools are under threat, leading to thousands of residents evacuating the affected areas. The fire department has reported that although there is no longer a single active fire, there are numerous local fires still burning, particularly around the towns of Marathon and Penteli.
Tragically, at least one person has lost their life in the fire, with numerous others injured. The search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with firefighters and emergency services working tirelessly to contain the blaze.
International aid has been called for to help combat the fire, with countries such as Italy, France, Serbia, Spain, Romania, and the Czech Republic offering assistance. Turkey has also sent two firefighting planes and a helicopter to aid their neighbor in this time of need.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has returned to Athens and is assessing the situation, but has yet to make a statement. The Greek press is heavily covering the events, with headlines expressing concern over the devastation caused by the fire.
This latest forest fire comes six years after the tragic Mati disaster, where over 100 people lost their lives in forest fires near Athens. The Greek government is facing criticism for its handling of the current situation, particularly in light of the previous disaster.
As the firefighting efforts continue, the people of Greece are hopeful for a swift containment of the blaze and minimal further loss of life and property.
