"Devastating Wildfires Sweep Across Greece Amid Extreme Heatwave; National Alert Issued" Temperatures Soar Beyond 45°C

"Devastating Wildfires Sweep Across Greece Amid Extreme Heatwave; National Alert Issued" Temperatures Soar Beyond 45°C

[Athens, 27 July 2025] — The intense heatwave gripping Greece has erupted into widespread and devastating wildfires. With temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius and strong winds fueling the flames, fires are rapidly spreading across vast regions. Emergency evacuations are underway in multiple areas as fire crews struggle to contain the advancing infernos.

On Sunday morning, firefighters continued their efforts to control blazes in the Peloponnese region west of Athens, as well as on the islands of Evia and Kythira. Aerial operations using planes and helicopters began early in the day to spray water over the affected zones.

Authorities have identified Drosopigi—located just 30 kilometers north of Athens—as the most dangerous front at present. All residents in the area have been ordered to evacuate. According to local media outlet Ertnews, at least one home has been completely destroyed. Strong winds of 5 to 6 on the Beaufort scale (30–50 km/h) are making firefighting efforts even more difficult.

The Greek Fire Department reported that nearly 100 firefighters, 36 fire engines, two aircraft, and three helicopters are deployed in Drosopigi to control the fire.

On Saturday, the government raised the national fire danger level to its highest—Red Category 5—citing the extreme heat and dry conditions that have significantly increased the risk of wildfires.

According to the Greek Meteorological Service, the heatwave began last Monday and is expected to continue until the upcoming Monday. Data from the Athens National Observatory shows that the highest temperature on Friday was recorded at 45.8°C (114.5°F) in Messenia, Peloponnese. On Saturday, the temperature reached 45.2°C in Amfilochia, western Greece.

Meanwhile, a wildfire near the Attica region of Athens on the island of Evia has spiraled out of control. Two fire engines were destroyed, and two firefighters sustained minor injuries.

On Kythira Island, a new fire broke out at 9:30 a.m. local time (6:30 GMT) on Saturday in a rural and forested area. That fire remains uncontrolled, and strong winds have forced the evacuation of several villages.

Greece has requested assistance from the European Union to help combat the raging fires. In the suburban area of Kryoneri near the capital, homes are burning as firefighters and volunteers risk their lives conducting rescue operations.

This catastrophic natural disaster has triggered widespread fear and anxiety across the country. Authorities are working around the clock to protect lives and property from the advancing flames.