Wildfires Near Athens Force Evacuations of 11 Towns and Hospitals Amid High Winds

Aug 12, 2024, 08:13 AM

Greece is grappling with a series of wildfires near Athens, prompting widespread evacuations. The fast-moving fires, fueled by gale-force winds and scorching temperatures, have forced thousands to flee their homes, including residents of the historic town of Marathon and Varnavas in Attica. At least 11 towns and villages, as well as several hospitals, have been evacuated. The wildfires have caused significant damage, burning trees, houses, and cars, and sending smoke clouds over the Greek capital. Flames have reached heights of 80 feet tall. The fires are part of a larger crisis, with more than 40 blazes reported across the country. Greek authorities have put several regions on high alert, and the European Union has dispatched firefighters from four countries to assist in battling the flames.