Wildfires Ravage Greece and France, Forcing Mass Evacuations Amidst Extreme Heat

Emergency services are battling widespread wildfires across Greece and southern France, with thousands evacuated as intense blazes continue to spread amidst soaring temperatures and strong winds. In Greece, a major wildfire tore through a northern suburb of Athens on Saturday, prompting urgent evacuation orders for residents of Kryoneri, located 20km north-east of the capital. Reports indicate significant damage to homes as 145 firefighters, supported by aircraft, work tirelessly to contain the inferno.

The situation in Greece is critical, with officials warning of “real difficulties ahead.” The country has requested additional firefighting planes from the European Union, as it grapples with 52 new wildfires breaking out nationwide within the last 24 hours. Besides Athens, large fires are also active on Crete, Evia, and Kythera, straining national resources. At least five residents, primarily elderly individuals with respiratory issues, have received medical attention due to the smoke.

Adding to the regional crisis, a significant wildfire also erupted in southern France late Saturday, near a beach resort in the Aude region. Driven by fierce winds, this blaze has consumed approximately 600 hectares, leading to the evacuation of two campgrounds and several local residences. Over 600 firefighters and a dozen aircraft are deployed, with two houses destroyed and three firefighters treated for smoke inhalation. Authorities anticipate challenging conditions to persist as high temperatures continue across both regions.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.