Tragic Wildfire Claims Lives in Central Greece

A deadly wildfire fanned by strong winds has claimed two lives in Corinth, central Greece. Hundreds of firefighters and aircraft have been deployed to control the blaze, which began near Xylokastro. The identification of the victims is pending lab tests. The fire broke out during Greece’s hottest recorded summer.

A deadly wildfire, fueled by strong winds, has claimed the lives of two people in the central Greek region of Corinth, authorities reported on Monday.

Hundreds of firefighters, supported by nine aircraft, fought the blaze that erupted near the seaside town of Xylokastro on Sunday. The fire, located roughly 120 km (75 miles) west of Athens, led to the evacuation of several villages. A police spokeswoman, Constantina Dimoglidou, confirmed that the recovered bodies were severely burnt, requiring laboratory tests for identification.

The Greek Citizen's Protection Ministry announced that an investigation has been launched by the fire brigade. Greece is experiencing its hottest summer ever, following its warmest winter on record, leaving many areas with little to no rainfall.

(With inputs from agencies.)