Inferno Besieges Athens: Greece's Worst Wildfire in Decades

A devastating wildfire spread into the suburbs of Athens, Greece, forcing mass evacuations and destroying homes, cars, and natural habitats. Strong winds have exacerbated the fire, as over 700 firefighters and various international allies work tirelessly to contain the blaze. Greece has seen increasing wildfire threats due to climate change.

Greece's most devastating wildfire this year engulfed the Athens suburbs on Monday, compelling hundreds to evacuate as it consumed trees, homes, and vehicles, with smoke and ash choking major roads. In response, the government called for assistance from EU member states to combat the fire that continued raging uncontrollably for a second day, driven by gale-force winds.

Firefighters reported that flames, endangering apartment blocks, schools, and businesses, penetrated the heart of the capital further than any fire in over two decades. As night fell, the inferno showed no signs of slowing down. More than 700 firefighters, supported by volunteers, 199 fire engines, and 35 waterbombing aircraft, have been battling the blaze since its eruption at 3 p.m. on Sunday near Varnavas, 35 km (20 miles) north of Athens.

Greece is expecting assistance with aircraft and firefighters from France, Italy, the Czech Republic, Serbia, and Turkey. "The situation remains extremely difficult," stated fire brigade spokesperson Vassilis Vathrakogiannis. "There are continuous flare-ups, constantly creating new outbreaks and spreading rapidly, aided by very strong winds."

(With inputs from agencies.)