Greek heatwave sparks numerous wildfires. by Steph Ball
A six day heat wave which has hit much of Greece has sparked over 130 wild fires, destroying thousands of acres of land. The worst fire, yet to be contained, began 80km north of Athens on Mount Parnitha. Since it started on Thursday the fire has begun to spread towards the capital, closing in on the north-west suburbs. Two people have already lost their lives in the fire which has so far destroyed hundreds of homes.
Residents of Athens awoke this morning to find much of the city blanketed by a thick cloud of smoke from the nearby flames. Fire Deputy Charis Damaskos said “this is a very difficult situation. The fire has climbed over the mountain and is now coming down the southern slope.”
Parts of Greece have been reeling under extreme heat this week with some places recording temperatures of 46C (115F). With temperatures already beginning to ease, fire fighters are hopeful the blaze will soon be controlled.
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