A resident living in the outskirts of Athens shared her experience of watching a major wildfire approach her home, describing it as a surreal and apocalyptic event. The fire, fueled by strong winds, dry conditions, and record-breaking temperatures, quickly spread to the suburbs of Athens, forcing thousands of people to evacuate.
More than 700 firefighters, along with volunteers and soldiers, have been working tirelessly to bring the flames under control. Unfortunately, the body of a woman was found in an industrial building in an evacuated area. The historic town of Marathon, which has also been evacuated, is facing what the mayor described as a ‘biblical catastrophe.’
Roberta Kapsalis, a resident of Schinias, shared her harrowing experience of watching the flames inch closer to her home. She compared the scene to something out of a dark fantasy movie, expressing the feeling of impending doom as the fire consumed everything in its path.
Despite the efforts of the fire service to protect the national park in the area, residents could still see the glow of the fires in the surrounding hills and villages, creating a tense and uncertain atmosphere. The couple living in the area has packed essential items and documents, staying in constant communication with local authorities and neighbors.
The firefighters’ bravery and dedication have been highlighted, with residents expressing gratitude for their heroic efforts to safeguard the communities. The Greek people have shown incredible resilience in the face of this disaster, with a collective determination to protect one another.
The wildfire, which began near Lake Marathon, is no longer advancing, but emergency crews are racing against time to bring the situation under control before the predicted increase in winds. The firefighters have been working tirelessly for months and are exhausted from their efforts to combat the blaze.
The latest devastation in Greece follows a series of major fires, including one on the island of Rhodes just over a year ago. The impact of these wildfires on communities and the environment is significant, highlighting the urgent need for continued efforts to prevent and mitigate such disasters.
As the Greek people face this challenging time, the spirit of resilience and unity shines through, offering hope for rebuilding and regrowth in the aftermath of this devastating wildfire.
