Greece's Wildfire Season Preparation
Greece prepares for a challenging wildfire season by doubling the number of firefighters, adopting new tactics, and investing in equipment. The country faces an increasing threat due to rising temperatures and the changing climate.
Key Points
- Greece's fire season started prematurely and has been extended over the last five years.
- Yearly fires burned an estimated 1,750 square kilometers last year.
- Europe is the world's fastest-warming continent, with temperatures rising at twice the global average.
- Greek winters have been getting warmer, with the six warmest winters on record occurring in the past decade.
Pros
- Greece is doubling the number of firefighters in specialized units to combat wildfires.
- Adopting tactics from the United States to outflank fires with airborne units.
- Investing in new equipment and technology to enhance disaster response capabilities.
- Increased focus on training and implementing new firefighting methods.
- European Union funding supports Greece's $2.3 billion program to improve response to disasters.
Cons
- Facing challenges due to Greece's mountainous terrain and hard-to-reach islands.
- New equipment ordered won't arrive until 2025, leaving the country vulnerable in the meantime.
- Worsening conditions expected with a very difficult fire season and summer ahead.