Greece: Emergency crews working to extinguish multiple wildfires across southern regions as of July 18 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are working to extinguish several wildfires burning in parts of southern mainland Greece as of July 18. Multiple fires broke out July 17 amid hot, dry, and windy conditions in the region. Authorities have issued the highest level of wildfire warnings across much of the affected area. Further wildfire growth is likely in the coming hours and days, with the current heatwave forecast to peak July 20-23.

A major fire broke out near Kouvaras in Attica Region, southeast of Athens, July 17. More than 230 firefighting personnel are on site battling the blaze. Authorities have issued several preventative evacuation notices for communities in the vicinity of the fire, including Anavyssos, Lagonisi, Peta Kouvara, and Saronida. A monastery and the settlement of Heloni have also been evacuated. Several structures have reportedly been damaged by the fire. Officials have closed a number of roads in the area, including a section of the Leof Lavriou highway. The fire is also threatening electricity pylons; power outages are possible in the region.

Another fire broke out July 17 outside Loutraki in the Corinthia area of Peloponnese Region. As of late July 17, the fire was more than 400 hectares (1,000 acres) in size and more than 120 firefighting personnel are on site battling the blaze. Authorities have evacuated the settlements of Kallithea, Pefki, and Irini. Around 1,000 children from a summer camp in the vicinity of the fire have also been moved to Loutraki. The national highway linking Corinth and Athens has been closed from the Agii Theodori intersection to the Epidaurus due to the proximity of the fire.

A major wildfire is also burning in the Dervenohoria area of Boeotia in Central Greece Region. The fire has grown to more than 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres) in size as of July 18 and more than 140 firefighting personnel are on site battling the blaze. The fire is largely burning in a forest area and no evacuation orders have been issued as of early July 18; however, residents in surrounding areas, including neighboring parts of northern Attica Region, have been advised to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed due to the threat of smoke from the fire.

Transport
The wildfires may cause additional transport disruptions in the affected areas. The status of nearby roads may change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close further routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the need for response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift any evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could cause or exacerbate traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed authorities' instructions, including any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will almost certainly cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages. Monitor local news sources for further information.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.