Greece: Emergency crews continuing response to wildfires in Varnavas, Attica Region, as of early Aug. 12 /update 1

As of early Aug. 12, emergency crews are battling a wildfire in Varnavas, northeast of Athens, in the Attica Region. More than 560 firefighters and aircraft are working to control the blaze, which is intensifying due to high winds. The fire has spread southward and is burning on several fronts, including the village of Grammatiko, the town of Marathon, the seaside municipality of Nea Makri, and Mount Penteli, complicating efforts. The fire has broken out amid the region's hot, dry, and windy conditions; further wildfire growth is possible over the coming hours.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for hundreds of residents in the area surrounding the fire, including Gramatiko, Stamata, Rodopoli, Mikrochori, Amygdaleza, Palea, and Nea Penteli areas. More information on evacuation orders can be found here. Depending on the fire's progress, officials may issue additional evacuation orders over the coming hours. At least five people have been treated for smoke inhalation, one firefighter has been injured, and the fire has reportedly damaged at least 20 houses in Varnavas. At least three hospitals in Penteli have been evacuated.

Authorities will likely keep affected areas cordoned off to vehicular and pedestrian traffic as crews work to extinguish the blaze; the status of nearby roads will probably change over the coming hours. The fire and the emergency response may cause localized business disruptions. Authorities could evacuate additional communities due to fire activity and the need for response operations. Low visibility from smoke and ashfall could also contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region and may disrupt operations at nearby airfields.