Greece’s Fire Service and the country’s Civil Protection mechanism faced an exceptionally demanding day as adverse weather conditions fueled wildfire outbreaks across multiple regions.
Over the past 24 hours, firefighters responded to 50 rural and forest fires, most of which were brought under control during their initial stages. The rapid deployment of ground crews and aerial firefighting assets proved crucial in containing the blazes before they could spread.
The largest operations took place in Zoniana, in the regional unit of Rethymno on Crete; Afidnes in Attica; Ano Kerasovo near Agrinio; Kalligata on the island of Kefalonia; Imero Pefko in Pikermi; and Perachora near Loutraki. In most cases, the fires were either brought under control or left with no active front within a short period, underscoring the effectiveness of the swift response by firefighting forces.
Authorities also placed particular emphasis on prevention. In Attica alone, the Fire Service Operations Center received 11 reports involving hot work, such as welding and cutting operations that can generate sparks, and inspections continued throughout the day.
Arrests Over Negligence and Fire Safety Violations
The Arson Crimes Directorate and its investigative units made two additional arrests in Agrinio and Nea Makri, Attica.
The suspects are accused of causing fires through negligence and violating legislation governing hot work activities.
Since the beginning of the year, authorities have made 213 arrests and imposed 595 administrative fines totaling €832,680.92. According to officials, the figures reflect the ongoing effort to combat both negligent and deliberate wildfire incidents.
Emergency Forces on High Alert
Throughout the day, the Fire Service remained on full operational alert, strategically deploying personnel to areas facing very high and extreme wildfire risk.
Aerial patrols carrying water were also conducted, with four aircraft intervening immediately in wildfire incidents, preventing the fires from spreading further.
Greece’s National Civil Protection Mechanism remained on heightened readiness with the participation of the Armed Forces, the Hellenic Police, the Hellenic Coast Guard, regional and municipal authorities, the Forest Service, electricity network operators DEDDIE and ADMIE, the National Emergency Medical Service (EKAB), and volunteer organizations.
Authorities said the coordination among all agencies ensured the effective management of the incidents.
Minister Thanks Emergency Responders
Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Evangelos Tournas thanked all personnel involved in the firefighting operations, as well as representatives from regional and local authorities, the Hellenic Police, the Armed Forces, EKAB, the Forest Service, and volunteer organizations.
He said the cooperation of all participating agencies remains essential to protecting human life, property, and the natural environment.
Tournas also stressed that the next two months are expected to be particularly challenging and will require continuous readiness, coordination, and responsibility from all agencies involved.
Very High Fire Risk on Thursday
For Thursday, July 23, Attica, the regional unit of Evia (Euboea), and the regional unit of Rhodes have been placed under Red Code operational readiness due to a very high wildfire risk (Risk Category 4).
The National Civil Protection Mechanism will remain fully mobilized, while the ministry is urging the public to exercise extreme caution, avoid any activity that could spark a fire, and strictly follow instructions from the authorities, including emergency alerts issued through Greece’s 112 warning system.
