Greece has endured a devastating wildfire season this summer, with 112,185 of land destroyed, dozens of properties damaged, and one confirmed death. Authorities report that the hardest-hit areas include the islands of Chios, the region of Preveza, parts of Attica, and Corinth.
According to the European Forest Fire Information System, this year ranks as the fifth worst wildfire season in Greece over the past 20 years. While 2007 saw over 667,184 acres burned and 2023 exceeded 420,079 , this year’s toll remains significant, surpassing last year’s figures and echoing the severe 2012 fires.
In Chios alone, two fires consumed 17,297 and 9884 acres, totaling around 27, 181 acres—over 15% of the island’s area. Other large fires affected Preveza, Keratea in Attica, and Feneos in Corinth. Experts warn that the combination of high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds can quickly escalate wildfires, making vigilance critical. Across the European Union, approximately 2,223,948 acres have burned as of mid-August.
Authorities also reported incidents of arson. In Messini, a fire broke out in a waste area, quickly addressed by ground and aerial firefighting teams. In Mytilene, a 57-year-old confessed to setting four fires on August 15 as an act of revenge against local residents.
Looking ahead, high wildfire risk is expected on Wednesday across the South Aegean, including Samos and Ikaria, as well as in parts of Crete, Evia, Central Greece, and the Peloponnese. Officials continue to urge residents to exercise caution amid extreme weather conditions and elevated fire warnings.
