Greece: Emergency services are working to contain wildfires northwest and west of Athens as of early Aug. 23

Event

Emergency services are working to contain wildfires northwest and west of Athens as of early Aug. 23. A fire is burning in Mount Parnitha, near Ano Liosia Town in northwest Athens, and another fire at a landfill in Aspropyrgos Town, west of Athens. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for thousands of people, including parts of Ano Liosia Town, Fyli Municipality, and two villages near Aspropyrgos Town. An emergency shelter is located at the Ano Liosion Town Hall. The main landfill at Fyli Municipality is closed until further notice. Authorities have closed a section of the Athens ring road near Aspropyrgos Town. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment time for the fires; prevailing hot and dry conditions could hamper firefighting efforts.

Officials could close roads at short notice to facilitate firefighting operations, and further evacuation orders are possible. Ground travel disruptions are likely, as are disruptions on available parallel routes. Authorities could expand mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. Smoke from the fires could cause poor air quality across the region. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Localized power outages are possible.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Check public transport status before setting out and allow additional time for travel.

Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages. 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 negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.