Greek Wildfire Rages On as Extreme Weather Triggers New Evacuations and Devastates Homes

In Greece, firefighters are battling a reignited wildfire that has prompted new evacuations as extreme weather conditions continue to bring searing temperatures across southern Europe. Despite the initial containment of the wildfire, the winds gathered strength, causing the flames to reignite. The fire has already destroyed a significant portion of forest and scrubland, covering an area of 35 square kilometers. Fire Service spokesman Yiannis Artopoios reported a total of 62 forest fires across Greece in the past 24 hours, highlighting the dynamic fire fronts created by the extreme weather conditions.

Evacuation orders have been issued for various areas in West Attica, although some residents have chosen to ignore these orders in an attempt to save their homes. Chrysoula Renieri, one such resident, expressed the devastating impact on her own home, stating, "It's all gone. We have suffered too much damage." The state of emergency has been declared on the island of Rhodes and evacuation orders have been issued for several mountain areas.

Despite international assistance from the EU, including firefighters and aircraft, the extent of the arid land and the vast affected area make it highly susceptible to reignition. The stifling heat in Greece, Italy, and Spain has created a high risk of fires, with temperatures expected to reach 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) on Sunday. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged absolute vigilance and readiness as the country faces another heatwave and potential strengthening of the winds. To ensure safety, archaeological sites, including the Acropolis in Athens, will be closed during the hottest hours of the day.