Holidaymakers in Greece have been put on high alert as a new urgent fire warning has been issued for six regions. The Civil Protection in Greece has raised concerns about a very high risk of fires in several areas due to the extremely dry conditions in the country. The warning, categorized as level 4, is in effect for Saturday, August 17, 2024. The affected regions include Attica, Sterea Ellada, Southern Aegean, Northern Aegean, Peloponnese, and Crete. Authorities have instructed state and local services in these regions to be on standby to quickly respond to any potential fires, deploying both aerial and ground patrols.
As a precautionary measure, movement within national parks, forests, and high-risk areas will be restricted for vehicles and individuals. The public is advised to be extremely cautious and avoid activities that could cause fires inadvertently, such as burning vegetation, using machinery that creates sparks, lighting barbecues, or discarding lit cigarettes. In case of spotting a fire, the public is urged to promptly contact the fire brigade by dialing the emergency number 199.
In related news, firefighters in Turkey have been actively combating wildfires triggered by the dry, hot, and windy weather conditions. One fire threatened historic sites at the Gallipoli battle site, including First World War memorials and graves. In a separate incident, blazes in north-west Turkey encroached upon a cemetery where New Zealand soldiers are laid to rest. The fire, suspected to have started due to electrical lines, spread through wooded areas but was eventually brought under control.
Across the Aegean Sea in Greece, emergency response teams have been working tirelessly to contain fires that have devastated communities. Recent reports indicate that a significant blaze near Athens destroyed homes and required considerable efforts to extinguish, resulting in casualties and extensive damage to property. Similarly, earlier incidents in neighbouring Turkey saw fires engulf settlements, leading to tragic losses of lives and necessitating urgent medical attention for the affected individuals.
As the threat of wildfires looms large in the region, authorities continue to stress the importance of vigilance and swift action to prevent further devastation. Holidaymakers and residents are urged to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and report any potential fire incidents promptly to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the ongoing crisis.