Wildfires spread rapidly near Athens prompting evacuations and waterbombing efforts

A massive wildfire is burning in Greece, northeast of Athens, with flames reaching heights of over 25 meters (80 feet). The blaze began on Sunday afternoon and has spread rapidly, forcing the evacuation of at least eight nearby villages, including Marathon. Authorities have reported 15 injuries, mostly due to smoke inhalation, and eight people have been hospitalized with respiratory problems. The European Union has pledged to send firefighters from four countries to assist Greece, with over 670 firefighters and 30 water-dropping aircraft already deployed.

Greece is experiencing a series of devastating wildfires, with over 40 fires breaking out since Saturday afternoon. The fires have spread rapidly, with one blaze near Athens blanketing the capital in a smoky haze. Evacuation orders have been issued for residents in several communities, including the historic site of Marathon. Firefighters, numbering over 500, have been deployed to combat the fires, with 150 vehicles at their disposal. Despite efforts to extinguish the flames, seven fires remain uncontrolled, with the fire brigade facing a challenging day in the high Mediterranean summer heat.