Greece is grappling with multiple new wildfires amid an official high fire-risk alert, as authorities brace for an incoming heatwave expected to push temperatures beyond 40°C in parts of the mainland between Sunday, July 6, and Wednesday, July 9.

Blaze Breaks Out in Aliki, Boeotia

A wildfire erupted on Saturday in low vegetation near the area of Aliki in Boeotia, central Greece. Strong winds are complicating firefighting efforts, although the blaze is not currently threatening residential areas.

At least 40 firefighters, two ground teams from the 4th EMODE, 12 fire engines, four aircraft, and two helicopters have been deployed to the scene. Local government water tankers are also supporting the operation.

Greek Civil Protection sent out two 112 emergency alerts to residents in the wider region, urging them to remain on standby. The second warning advised:

“Those located in Aliki are instructed to evacuate toward Agios Nikolaos.”

Southern Evia Sees Improvement After Fierce Night

Meanwhile, in southern Evia, the situation has improved following a dramatic night of intense ground firefighting in the triangle between Nea Styra, Tsakaioi, and Limnionas, in the Karystos area. Firefighters managed to hold the flames back from residential courtyards during the night.

With the first light of day, aerial firefighting resumed in full force, providing critical support to ground crews, who continued efforts to reinforce containment lines. Firefighters successfully created firebreak zones in strategic areas to prevent the blaze from entering populated zones.

However, strong winds persist, fueling repeated flare-ups. Crews remain on high alert, with additional help from municipal and regional water trucks and earthmoving machinery.

According to initial reports, no homes have been damaged, but farm infrastructure has been destroyed. Several livestock farmers managed to move their herds to safety, although large areas of olive groves and vineyards have burned.

Authorities Warn of Escalating Fire Risk

Greek authorities have issued heightened fire risk warnings for several regions, urging vigilance and readiness as the heatwave approaches. The Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has advised the public to avoid outdoor activities that could spark new fires and to closely follow official alerts.

The next 72 hours are considered critical, with soaring temperatures and gusty winds increasing the likelihood of new outbreaks.