Facing heightened wildfire threats due to climate change, Greece is deploying a record 18,000 firefighting personnel this summer and nearly doubling its fleet of surveillance drones, according to a report at AP.
Civil Protection Minister Ioannis Kefalogiannis warned that conditions this fire season—from May to October—will be especially severe due to rising temperatures and reduced rainfall.
Greek Fire Chief Lt. Gen. Theodoros Vagias emphasized the urgency of adapting to the climate crisis through improved surveillance, preparedness, and resource management. In recent years, wildfire destruction has surged, with damage in 2021 and 2023 far exceeding the decade average, according to EU data.
The enhanced response includes the expansion of elite firefighting units to high-risk areas and an increase in drones from 45 to 82. A large-scale exercise held south of Athens showcased Greece’s upgraded approach, featuring fire planes executing coordinated water drops and commanders using real-time drone footage to direct operations. The military and coast guard also participated in an evacuation drill simulating a children’s camp threatened by wildfires.
Greece’s firefighting force has grown by 20% over the past two years, with volunteers and EU support playing a key role. Around 300 firefighters from five European countries will be stationed in Greece under an EU prepositioning program, further strengthening cross-border cooperation in tackling wildfires.
As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense, Greek officials stress the need for vigilance, advanced technology, and international coordination.
