Quick Read
- A wildfire swept through Kryoneri, a northern suburb of Athens, prompting evacuations.
- At least 52 wildfires were reported across Greece within 24 hours, fueled by extreme heat and strong winds.
- Over 145 firefighters and 10 firefighting planes were deployed to combat the Kryoneri blaze.
- Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis pledged government support for those affected.
- Heatwave conditions persist, with temperatures reaching 40–41°C in Athens and other regions.
Greece is once again grappling with the devastating effects of wildfires, as a raging blaze tore through the northern suburb of Kryoneri, just 20 kilometers from Athens. On Saturday, July 26, 2025, residents received urgent evacuation orders via SMS as flames spread rapidly, fueled by scorching temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds. Photos from the scene show charred homes and firefighters battling against overwhelming odds.
Evacuations and Immediate Impact
The wildfire in Kryoneri has led to significant damage, with Greek media capturing images of burning houses and devastated neighborhoods. According to Vassilis Vathrakoyannis, a spokesperson for Greece’s Fire Service, over 145 firefighters, 44 fire engines, 10 firefighting planes, and seven helicopters were deployed to combat the flames. Emergency medical teams treated at least five residents, most of them elderly individuals suffering from respiratory issues caused by the smoke.
The fire’s rapid spread prompted authorities to issue three consecutive evacuation messages, urging residents to flee to safety. “The real difficulties are ahead of us,” warned Vathrakoyannis, noting that Greece had requested additional firefighting planes from the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism to bolster its efforts.
Heatwave and Elevated Fire Risk
The Kryoneri wildfire is just one of 52 fires reported across Greece within a 24-hour period, highlighting the severe conditions gripping the country. According to the National Meteorological Service (EMY), temperatures have soared to 40–41 degrees Celsius in Athens and other parts of the eastern mainland, exacerbating the risk of wildfires. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the scale of the crisis, stating, “The state mechanism was called to engage in a titanic battle, simultaneously responding to dozens of wildfires across the country.”
In addition to the fires near Athens, major blazes were also reported on the islands of Crete, Evia, and Kythera. A combined force of 335 firefighters, 19 planes, and 13 helicopters was mobilized to tackle these fires, though aerial operations remain limited to daylight hours.
Tourism and Broader Implications
The wildfires have also raised concerns among international tourists, particularly those visiting Greece’s popular holiday destinations. British tourists, among others, have been warned about the growing wildfire risk, as some areas remain under high alert. With temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius in many regions, including the Ionian Islands and the Dodecanese, the situation remains precarious for both locals and visitors.
Wildfires have become an increasingly frequent and destructive occurrence in Greece, particularly during the summer months. Experts attribute this trend to climate change, which has intensified heatwaves and prolonged periods of drought. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in firefighting resources, yet the scale and frequency of these disasters continue to challenge its capabilities.
Government Response and Future Outlook
As the immediate firefighting efforts continue, the Greek government has pledged support for those affected by the fires. “To those who saw their properties destroyed by the fury of the fire, know that the state will stand by your side,” said Prime Minister Mitsotakis in a statement. The government is also coordinating with international partners to secure additional resources and expertise.
Looking ahead, authorities are urging vigilance as the heatwave is expected to persist in the coming days, albeit with some relief anticipated in the western regions. The National Meteorological Service predicts a gradual easing of temperatures starting Sunday, but the risk of new fires remains high due to the combination of dry conditions and strong winds.
As Greece confronts yet another wildfire crisis, the resilience of its people and the dedication of its emergency services are once again being tested. The road to recovery will be long, but collective efforts and international solidarity offer hope for a brighter future.