600+ Firefighters Battle Out-of-Control Wildfires Ravaging Greece, Europe Answers the Call

Over 600 firefighters from Greece and several European countries are working tirelessly to combat three major wildfires that have been ravaging the country for days. The wildfires, fueled by gale-force winds and dry summer conditions, have caused widespread destruction and claimed numerous lives. As of now, Greece has reported a total of 105 wildfires, with 46 new fires erupting within a 24-hour period. Officials suspect arson as the cause of some of these blazes.

One of the most devastating wildfires is located in Greece's northeastern regions of Evros and Alexandroupolis, where it has been burning for nine days. This massive fire, which originated from smaller fires merging, has become one of the largest wildfires ever witnessed in a European Union country. So far, it has consumed 77,000 hectares of land, including forests and homes in the outskirts of Alexandroupolis. In an attempt to quell the blaze, 295 firefighters, seven planes, and five helicopters have been deployed, while two villages have been evacuated due to impending danger.

In another area near the Greek capital, a major wildfire has also been raging for days. It has already destroyed homes and encroached upon Mount Parnitha, a cherished national park and one of Athens' last remaining green areas. To combat this fire, 160 firefighters, one plane, and three helicopters are currently working tirelessly. Additionally, a third major wildfire broke out on the Cycladic island of Andros on Saturday, and it remains uncontrolled as of now. Lightning strikes are suspected to be the cause. Efforts to extinguish the fire involve 73 firefighters, two planes, and two helicopters.

Given the severity of the situation, Greece has sought assistance from other European nations. Germany, Sweden, Croatia, and Cyprus have sent aircraft to support the firefighting efforts, and firefighters from Romania, France, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Albania, Slovakia, and Serbia are working on the ground. The European Union has attributed the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in Europe to climate change, declaring 2022 as the second-worst year for wildfire damage on record, following 2017.

While the exact causes of Greece's largest fires have yet to be established, authorities suspect arson and negligence for some of the smaller blazes. In response, the fire department has made numerous arrests, including two individuals who allegedly deliberately set fire to dried grass and vegetation. Greece has implemented wildfire prevention regulations from May to October, with specific measures to limit activities that could spark fires. As the firefighting forces continue to battle against the flames, the support and prayers of many have poured in, including from Pope Francis. The people of Greece remain resilient, standing united in the face of this destructive force and hoping for an end to the devastation soon.