Fire breaks out at major Greek oil refinery near Athens
- A fire broke out at an oil refinery near Agii Theodori, prompting an evacuation alert.
- Thirty firefighters and three helicopters were deployed to combat the blaze.
- No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
On Tuesday, a significant fire erupted at an oil refinery located west of Athens, near the coastal town of Agii Theodori. The incident prompted local authorities to issue an evacuation alert for residents in the vicinity, ensuring their safety amid the unfolding emergency. The refinery, owned by Greece's Motor Oil energy group, is situated approximately 70 kilometers from the capital, Athens, and is adjacent to a major highway connecting the city to the southern Peloponnese region. The fire service responded promptly, deploying 30 firefighters to combat the blaze, with additional support from three water-dropping helicopters. As the situation developed, more firefighting resources were dispatched to the scene to assist in controlling the flames. Eyewitness accounts and footage broadcasted on state television depicted thick clouds of black smoke rising from the facility, indicating the severity of the fire. Authorities took precautionary measures by sending push alerts to mobile phones of residents living nearby, urging them to evacuate the area. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the fire, which is a relief given the potential dangers associated with such incidents in industrial settings. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with officials working to determine the circumstances that led to this emergency. The incident highlights the risks associated with oil refineries and the importance of rapid response measures to protect both the environment and public safety.