A high wildfire risk alert has been issued for several areas of Greece, with authorities warning of dangerous conditions caused by strong winds and placing emergency services on increased readiness.
According to the Civil Protection authorities’ Fire Risk Forecast Map, a “very high” fire danger level (Category 4) is in effect for Saturday, June 27, in Attica, the Peloponnese, and parts of Central Greece, Western Greece and the North Aegean region.
The affected areas have been placed under an “orange” alert, meaning that state services, regional authorities and municipalities have been informed and must remain prepared to respond quickly to possible wildfire incidents.
Firefighting forces on increased alert
The Fire Service announced that the second stage of operational readiness has been activated. Aerial surveillance patrols will be increased, along with patrols carried out by firefighting, police and military forces.
Fire Service personnel in the affected regional areas have also been placed under partial alert to respond to the increased demands that may arise due to the elevated fire risk.
Authorities have also activated the Civil Protection action plan for forest fire risks, which includes measures such as possible preventive restrictions on vehicle access and visitor movement in national parks, forests and other vulnerable areas.
Citizens urged to avoid fire risks
The Fire Service is calling on citizens to be extremely careful and avoid outdoor activities that could accidentally start a fire.
Authorities specifically warn against:
- burning dry grass, branches or garden waste;
- using equipment that can create sparks, such as saws and welding devices;
- using outdoor grills;
- smoking near beehives;
- throwing away lit cigarettes.
Burning agricultural fields is also prohibited during the fire prevention period.
Citizens are advised to follow official updates and safety instructions from the Fire Service and Civil Protection authorities.
Anyone who notices a fire is asked to immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199.
For additional information and self-protection guidance regarding forest fire risks, citizens can visit the official Civil Protection website.
