Trump Aims to Reclaim Attention with Return to X Amid Political Rivalry
- Hundreds of Greek firefighters battle out-of-control wildfire near Athens.
- Three hospitals, two monasteries, and a children's home evacuated.
- Evacuation orders issued for at least 30 areas, including several Athens suburbs.
A significant wildfire broke out in the northern suburbs of Athens on Monday, leading to the evacuation of several areas as strong winds complicated firefighting efforts. The blaze, which ignited Sunday afternoon approximately 35 kilometers northeast of the capital, has already consumed around 10,000 hectares (25,000 acres) of land, damaging homes and businesses while enveloping the city in smoke and ash. Greece has experienced its hottest months on record this summer, contributing to an early and intense fire season that has stretched the capabilities of the nation’s firefighting resources. In response to the escalating situation, authorities issued evacuation orders for multiple suburbs, deploying over 190 vehicles alongside 17 water-dropping planes and 16 helicopters to combat the flames. Three hospitals in Athens were placed on high alert as paramedics treated several individuals, including two firefighters and 13 civilians suffering from breathing issues. The exact number of residents affected remains uncertain, particularly during the peak summer holiday season. The wildfire is part of a broader pattern, with multiple fires reported across Greece on the same day. The country has a tragic history with wildfires, including the devastating 2018 blaze in Mati that resulted in over 100 fatalities. Last year, wildfires claimed the lives of more than 20 individuals, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by such disasters in the region. As the situation develops, authorities continue to monitor the fire's progression and the safety of residents in the affected areas.