A very high risk of wildfires has been forecast for Thursday across six major regions in Greece, according to the Fire Risk Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection (GSCP) under the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
The fire risk warning (category 4 – very high) applies to the following regions:
- Attica
- Peloponnese (specifically the regional units of Corinth, Argolis, Arcadia, and Laconia)
- Central Greece (including Phthiotis, Boeotia, Phocis, and Euboea with Skyros island)
- Crete
- North Aegean (Lesbos, Chios, Samos, Ikaria)
- South Aegean (Cyclades)
Heightened Preparedness Across Services
Authorities have notified all relevant government agencies, regional authorities, and municipalities in the affected areas to be on high alert and ready to respond swiftly to any wildfire incidents. The second stage of the Fire Service’s operational readiness is now in effect.
This includes aerial surveillance patrols and ground patrols involving the Fire Service, Police, and Armed Forces. Firefighting personnel in these regions are also on partial standby due to the elevated threat.
Public Advisory: Avoid High-Risk Outdoor Activities
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection and the Fire Service are urging the public to avoid actions that could accidentally start fires in rural areas. These include:
- Burning dry grass or branches
- Using machinery that produces sparks, such as chainsaws or welding tools
- Operating outdoor grills
- Beekeeping activities that involve smoke
- Discarding lit cigarettes
Citizens are also reminded that burning fields is strictly prohibited during the fire season.
Proactive Fire Safety Measures
The national wildfire prevention plan has been activated. It includes temporary bans on vehicle movement and recreational visits to national parks, forests, and other vulnerable natural areas.
In case of fire, the public is urged to immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199 and strictly follow instructions from authorities.
For more detailed information and self-protection guidelines during wildfire season, visit the Civil Protection website at www.civilprotection.gr.
