Μake us preferred on Google A devastating wildfire continued to tear through the coastal area of Porto Germeno in central Greece on Saturday, leaving widespread destruction as firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly spreading flames under extremely strong winds.
The fire has caused catastrophic damage, with preliminary estimates indicating that around 150 homes have been destroyed. Houses, vehicles, forestland, and entire properties have been consumed by the flames as ground crews continue battling the blaze in exceptionally difficult conditions.
Wildfire in Porto Germeno, Friday 31 July 2026. (ΜΙΧΑΛΗΣ ΚΑΡΑΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ/EUROKINISSI)
Thousands Evacuated as Flames Threaten Communities
Greek authorities have issued multiple emergency alerts through the country’s 112 public warning system, ordering residents of Agia Paraskevi, Kryo Pigadi, and Agios Nektarios to evacuate toward Vilia.
According to the Hellenic Police, more than 1,150 people have been evacuated from Porto Germeno, Agios Nektarios, Patima, Psatha, and Mytikas.
The seaside community of Psatha was evacuated during the early morning hours, while Fire Service vessels remained on standby in the bay to assist if needed. Authorities also evacuated Livadostra in Boeotia after flames approached homes in the area.
Massive Firefighting Operation
Firefighting resources have been significantly reinforced across Attica and Boeotia, with 420 firefighters, 120 fire engines, 19 firefighting aircraft, and 11 helicopters deployed to combat the wildfire.
Officials estimate that the blaze has already burned around 50,000 stremmas (approximately 12,350 acres) of land, destroying extensive areas of forest and one of the region’s most important natural landscapes.
Residents Watch Their Homes Burn
As the disaster unfolds, many evacuated residents have turned to social media in search of information about their homes.
Some described the anguish of watching live video footage showing their properties engulfed in flames, unable to return or do anything to save them.
Other Wildfires Across Greece
Authorities continue to battle several other major wildfires across the country.
In Aigio, firefighters are combating two active fire fronts with 96 firefighters, 30 fire engines, and 11 aircraft.
A separate wildfire broke out in the Kyra area near Farsala in central Greece, where 31 firefighters and four aircraft have been deployed.
Meanwhile, officials said the wildfire in Preveli, on the island of Crete, has subsided, with the majority of the area’s renowned palm forest successfully protected.
