Unchecked fire near Athens claims one life, continues to ravage without restraint
A Forest Fire Ravages the Aegean: Evacuations, Losses, and Ongoing Battles
A devastating forest fire has swept through the region southeast of Athens, causing widespread destruction and claiming one life. The wildfire, which started on Friday, August 8, 2025, has left a trail of devastation, with nearly 10,000 acres of brush and forest, homes, agricultural land, and other properties reduced to ashes[1][2].
The elderly man who perished in the fire was found in a destroyed hut[1][2]. The fire department, supported by teams from across the country, has been fighting the blaze since it began. Despite their efforts, the strong winds reaching up to 74–88 kilometers per hour have intensified the fire and complicated firefighting efforts[1][2][3].
Authorities have evacuated dozens of residents and an elderly care center near Palaia Fokaia as the fire approached. Police conducted door-to-door checks to ensure that everyone was evacuated safely[1][2][3]. Sailing bans were temporarily in place but have since been lifted as conditions improved.
In response to the extreme conditions and multiple wildfires across the country, Greece has requested European Union assistance, including four water-bombing aircraft under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The aid comes as over 100 active wildfires fueled by dry weather and strong winds affect southern Europe[3].
Currently, over 260 firefighters, nearly 80 fire engines, and 12 aircraft are deployed to control the fire. Although the fire has weakened somewhat, it still has active hotspots. A nearby fire was quickly brought under control[1][2].
Meteorologists have warned that due to the persistent drought, even small sparks could cause a major fire within minutes. They have advised that the highest level of fire danger remains in effect in many parts of the Aegean[1][2][3]. The national weather service forecasts continuing dangerous weather with high temperatures and strong winds, prompting ongoing precautions and firefighting efforts.
Three water-bombing aircraft and five helicopters are currently in use to fight the forest fire from the air. In addition, five helicopters are being used in the battle against the flames on the ground[1][3].
The forest fire started about 35 kilometers southeast of Athens for unknown reasons. It serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of wildfires and the ongoing need for fire safety measures in dry and windy conditions.
[1] Greek Reporter. (2025, August 8). Massive Forest Fire Rages Near Athens, Greece. Retrieved from https://greekreporter.com/2025/08/08/massive-forest-fire-rages-near-athens-greece/
[2] ANA-MPA. (2025, August 8). Wildfire near Athens: 1 dead, 10,000 acres burned, 260 firefighters deployed. Retrieved from https://www.amna.gr/el/news/article/?aid=1036520
[3] Euronews. (2025, August 8). Greece requests EU aid as wildfires rage across the country. Retrieved from https://www.euronews.com/2025/08/08/greece-requests-eu-aid-as-wildfires-rage-across-the-country
The ongoing weather conditions, characterized by high temperatures and strong winds, have posed significant challenges in the general-news event of the forest fire near Athens, Greece. Despite efforts to prevent it, there's a risk of accidents due to small sparks causing major fires in the Aegean region, where weather forecasting indicates the persistence of dangerous weather.
