Firefighters Battle Fierce Wildfire in Evia, Greece Amid High Winds

Over 200 firefighters supported by helicopters and planes fought a wildfire in Evia, Greece, for a second day. Authorities evacuated two villages as the fire, fueled by strong winds, persisted. Greece’s dry, hot summers and climate change have made wildfires more frequent, posing continuous challenges.

Over 200 firefighters, aided by helicopters and water-carrying planes, battled a fierce wildfire on Greece's second-largest island, Evia, for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, prompting authorities to evacuate two villages.

The blaze began near the village of Petries on Monday afternoon, fanned by strong winds that have made containment efforts difficult. While conditions improved slightly by Tuesday, windy weather continues to pose a significant risk, according to a fire service spokesperson.

Thirteen aircraft and six helicopters were deployed to the scene, approximately 60 km northeast of Athens. A coastguard vessel was also on standby for possible sea evacuations. Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias called the fire particularly challenging due to its origin in a rugged area.

Wildfires have become increasingly common in Greece's hot, dry summers, exacerbated by climate change. Data from the fire brigade reveals that over 8,000 fires erupted last year alone. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis noted the nation's struggle with severe climate conditions this summer.

With August still ahead, Mitsotakis urged heightened vigilance. Since May, Greece has endured numerous wildfires in the wake of its hottest June on record and extended heatwaves, driven by strong winds and drought.

In 2021, a devastating wildfire scorched northern Evia for nearly a week, reducing over 115,000 acres to ashes, destroying homes, and killing livestock.

(With inputs from agencies.)