Greece’s civil protection authorities have placed the state mechanism on heightened alert for Monday, as the country’s Fire Risk Forecast Map warns of very high and high wildfire danger across large parts of the country.
Very high fire risk
Areas classified as Category 4 (Very High Risk) include parts of Central Macedonia, specifically the regional units of Thessaloniki and Kilkis. Authorities warn that weather conditions in these areas are conducive to the outbreak and rapid spread of wildfires, requiring increased vigilance.
High fire risk
A number of other regions, including Attica, have been placed under Category 3 (High Risk)—often referred to as a yellow alert. Other affected areas include:
- Boeotia
- Xanthi
- Rhodope
- Evros
- Achaea
- Ilia
- Corinthia
- Argolis
- Laconia
- Larissa
- Magnesia
- Phthiotis
- The Cyclades
- Crete
- The Ionian Islands
- Western Greece
- Southern Evia
- Lesvos
Advice to the public
The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection is urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution and avoid any outdoor activities that could spark a fire.
Authorities specifically advise against:
- Using machinery that produces sparks;
- Lighting outdoor barbecues;
- Burning vegetation to produce smoke for beekeeping;
- Discarding lit cigarettes.
The ministry also reminds the public that burning fields and agricultural waste is prohibited throughout the wildfire season.
Emergency services on standby
The Fire Service, regional authorities and municipalities in high-risk areas remain on heightened operational readiness to respond rapidly to any wildfire outbreak.
Anyone who spots smoke or fire is urged to immediately call the Fire Service at 199 and follow all instructions issued by the authorities, including emergency alerts sent through 112.
