On Monday, August 12, a catastrophic wildfire rapidly advanced towards Athens, forcing thousands of residents, including those from the historic town of Marathon, to evacuate their homes. Driven by fierce winds, a 30-kilometre (20-mile) wall of flames, towering over 25 metres (80 feet) in some areas, edged ever closer to Greece’s capital city.
Inferno Threatens Athens: 700 Firefighters and 30 Aircraft Deployed
Nearly 700 firefighters and over 30 aircraft have been deployed to combat the raging infernos that have breached the city’s outer suburbs near Mount Pentelikon. Despite their relentless efforts, the blazes have continued to spread, threatening vital areas.
Emergency Shelters Opened: Olympic Stadiums and Hospitals on Standby
In response to the escalating crisis, authorities have opened the Olympic stadium and other facilities in northern Athens to house the fleeing residents. Three major hospitals are on high alert, prepared for any casualties as the fire’s impact intensifies.
Firefighters Injured: One Burned, Others Hospitalized
The toll on first responders has been severe. One firefighter has suffered serious burns, another is hospitalized with breathing difficulties, and 13 others have been treated for respiratory issues, according to fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis.
Suburban Evacuations: Halandri and Nea Penteli Under Threat
Halandri, a suburban municipality, has ordered a partial evacuation due to the encroaching flames. Nea Penteli, a leafy suburb, also advised its residents to relocate as television footage showed homes engulfed by the raging fire.
Marathon Engulfed: Town Mayor Declares ‘Biblical Catastrophe’
Marathon, the town known for its historic race, is experiencing a devastating blaze. Mayor Stergios Tsirkas described the situation as a “biblical catastrophe” as the entire town becomes engulfed in flames.
Athens Covered in Smoke: Iconic Mount Pentelikon Shrouded
Central Athens is cloaked in thick, gray smoke, with Mount Pentelikon, known for its marble used in ancient Greek architecture, completely obscured. The persistent smoke and flames are creating a dire situation across the region.
Fire Rekindled: 40 Different Locations Hit on Monday
The wildfire’s spread was exacerbated by strong winds, which rekindled flames at 40 different locations. Authorities are struggling to keep up with the fire’s rapid evolution despite their continuous efforts.
Evacuations Revive Memories of Mati Disaster
The current destruction echoes the tragic Mati disaster of July 2018, where 104 lives were lost due to delays and errors in evacuation. The recent fires highlight the ongoing challenges in managing wildfire crises.
Extreme Heat and Drought: Greece’s Hottest Year on Record
Greece is experiencing its hottest summer on record, following the warmest winter and hottest June and July since data collection began in 1960. Temperatures around Athens are forecasted to reach 39°C (102°F) on Monday, with wind gusts up to 50 km/h (31 mph) further intensifying the fires.
Global Impact: Climate Change Intensifies Wildfire Seasons
Scientists warn that human-induced climate change is worsening the intensity and frequency of heatwaves and wildfires globally. As Europe faces unprecedented heat, other countries are also struggling with extreme temperatures.
Europe’s Heatwave: France and Rome Also in Crisis
France recorded temperatures above 40°C (104°F) on Sunday, while Rome is expected to see temperatures reach 38°C (100°F) on Monday, with highs remaining around 36°C (97°F) throughout the week.
