13 Aug 2019 | 08:40 PM UTC
Greece: Wildfire forces evacuations on Euboea August 13
Wildfire forces evacuations of residents on island of Euboea August 13; high fire risk across several regions of Greece; wildfires may spread over the coming hours and days
Event
A wildfire on the island of Euboea has forced the evacuation of residents in the villages of Kontodespoti and Makrimalli on Tuesday, August 13, as authorities struggle to contain the blaze. Multiple fires have broken out in Greece in recent days amid gale-force winds and high temperatures of 40°C (104°F) abetting their spread. As of Tuesday evening (local time), authorities have declared a high-fire-risk warning for several regions across Greece. Authorities have advised individuals to refrain from any "actions which may cause a fire."
Although firefighters are attempting to contain the blazes, further spread of wildfires is possible over the coming hours and days. Localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near the fires.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments, avoid the vicinity of the blazes, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
