Monday, August 12, 2024 Thousands of residents and tourists are fleeing their homes and hotels as wildfires rage near Athens, Greece, forcing the evacuation of several towns and hospitals. The fires, exacerbated by high temperatures and strong winds, have created a dangerous situation across the region, with local authorities describing the unfolding events as a “biblical catastrophe.” Temperatures across much of Greece have remained above average for several days, with the maximum temperature in Athens approaching 40°C (104°F) multiple times this week.
A yellow warning for extreme heat was issued for much of Greece on Tuesday afternoon, highlighting the ongoing threat. However, the greatest challenge for firefighters battling the blazes is not just the heat but the wind. Low pressure to the east of Greece and high pressure to the west have created a channel of strong winds funneling across the country.
Wind speeds in Athens on Monday afternoon averaged 32 km/h (20 mph) but gusted up to 50 km/h (32 mph) from the northeast, further spreading the fires. These winds are expected to ease slightly on Tuesday and Wednesday before picking up again later in the week, making firefighting efforts even more difficult. In the historic town of Marathon, located just over 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Athens, the situation has grown increasingly dire.
“Our whole town is engulfed in flames and going through difficult times,” said Stergios Tsirkas, mayor of Marathon. The town, home.