Strong winds and dry conditions ignited wildfires in many parts of Greece on Wednesday, with the latest major blazes breaking out in the resort town of Oropos in Eastern Attica and in Kilkis, Northern Greece.

In Oropos, a fast-moving fire tore through a virgin pine forest, threatening the settlement of Asprohori. Oropos Mayor Giorgos Giasimakis told public broadcaster ERT News that the fire was spreading rapidly fuelled by strong winds.

Authorities issued an emergency 112 evacuation alert around 7 p.m., advising residents to flee the area via the Athens-Lamia national highway. Police have diverted traffic to assist evacuation efforts.

Fire risk in Greece for Thursday, July 10.

More than 60 firefighters, 20 vehicles, 13 firefighting aircraft, six helicopters and dozens of volunteers have been mobilized to battle the blaze.

Meanwhile, in Northern Greece, a forest fire that initially erupted in North Macedonia crossed into Greek territory, reaching Kilkis in Central Macedonia. Evacuation orders were issued for the residents of Mouries and Kavalari, urging them to head toward the village of Drosato via the Kilkis–Serres road.

Wildfires have also been reported in Larissa, Kefalonia, and Aitoloakarnania, stretching firefighting resources across the country.

The fires come on the heels of a relentless heatwave that has gripped Greece for days, leaving much of the country on high alert.

According to the latest fire risk map issued by the Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, a “very high” wildfire risk remains in place for Thursday, July 10, in the following regions: Attica, Central Greece, Peloponnese, Thessaly, Western, Greece, Ionian Islands, and Central Macedonia.

Authorities are urging residents and visitors in these areas to remain on high alert and to follow civil protection guidelines as conditions remain extremely dangerous.