Greece is facing one of its toughest wildfire outbreaks this year as dozens of new blazes erupted within 24 hours, driven by strong winds, hot temperatures, and dry conditions.
Officials reported 82 fresh fires in a single day, with major outbreaks near Patras in the Peloponnese, in Preveza, and on the islands of Chios and Zakynthos.
Evacuations have taken place in several areas, including a rescue operation from Chios where heavy smoke reached a harbour.
More than 4,900 firefighters, supported by 33 aircraft, are battling the flames across multiple fronts. Thirteen firefighters have been injured since the start of the latest surge.
Temperatures in parts of the country are expected to reach 34°C, with a high fire risk in most regions. Greece has requested emergency assistance from other EU nations, including additional firefighting aircraft.
Elsewhere in Europe, severe heat has worsened wildfire conditions. Spain has seen deadly incidents and mass evacuations, including near Tarifa’s tourist beaches and the heritage site of Las Medulas.
Fires are also active in Italy, France, Portugal, Montenegro, and Albania, where both heat-related deaths and fire casualties have been reported.
Many countries remain under heat alerts as temperatures in some areas approach or exceed 40°C.