Greek civil protection on Friday ordered a partial evacuation of Haidari, a suburb west of Athens, after a forest fire broke out on a nearby mountain. This was communicated through an emergency alert sent to residents’ mobile phones.
Haidari is located approximately 11 kilometers (seven miles) west of central Athens.
Firefighters reported that the fire started Friday morning in the area of Agios Vasileios in Boeotia and is being fought by more than 105 firefighters and 29 units of equipment, according to the fire service.
Strong gusty winds have complicated firefighting efforts and aerial operations. Due to turbulence, only one helicopter was able to collect water from the sea to drop over the fire area.
Hot conditions complicate firefighting in Europe
Hot and dry weather conditions are being observed throughout Europe, which is warming faster than any other continent. Scientists note that human-induced climate change is intensifying conditions that contribute to the occurrence and spread of fires.
The average temperature in Europe on Friday was forecast to be 24.9 degrees Celsius, which is 3.3°C higher than the average for the period from 1961 to 1990. Data from the Reuters Climate Monitor indicates that Europe has one of the largest deviations from its historical temperature norm.
Smoke and ash from large fires that have raged in various parts of the continent in recent weeks have created risks for air quality and the health of millions of people.
Scientists are particularly concerned about emissions of fine particulate matter PM2.5, which are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory problems.
Source: France 24
