Wildfire in Northern Suburbs of Athens

SOURCE apnews.com
A major forest fire on the northern fringes of the Greek capital, Athens, has left at least one person dead and triggered evacuations. Hundreds of firefighters and water-dropping planes are battling the blaze, with international assistance being sought. The fire has affected about 10,000 hectares, with France, Italy, the Czech Republic, and other countries providing aid.

Key Points

  • Firefighters found a body in a burnt building in the suburb of Vrilissia.
  • Satellite images show that the blaze has affected about 10,000 hectares.
  • Climate change is fueling bigger and more frequent wildfires in Greece.

Pros

  • International assistance from countries like France, Italy, and the Czech Republic is being provided to help combat the wildfire.
  • Efforts of hundreds of firefighters and water-dropping planes are being deployed to battle the out-of-control blaze.
  • Progress was reported against the massive fire, with a drop in winds offering hope.

Cons

  • At least one person has died due to the wildfire.
  • Several homes and businesses have been burnt in the city suburbs and communities near Lake Marathon.
  • Smoke and ash shrouded central Athens, leading to power cuts and affecting traffic lights.