A wildfire broke out early Thursday afternoon (June 26) in an open lot in Palaia Fokaia, a seaside town in East Attica prompting an immediate emergency response and the evacuation of local residents.
According to the Hellenic Fire Service, 27 fire engines and 72 firefighters have been deployed to the scene, along with two ground teams from the 1st Special Forest Firefighting Unit (EMODE). Aerial support includes four planes and two helicopters, while local government water trucks are also assisting efforts.
At approximately 13:00 local time, residents in the area received an emergency alert via the 112 system urging them to evacuate toward Lagonisi.
As a result of the fire, traffic authorities have closed parts of the Athens–Sounio Avenue. The closures are in place from the intersection with Dim. Evelpidou Koutsia Street heading toward Sounio, and from the area of Virgin Katafygiótissa Church heading toward Athens.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area and follow instructions from emergency services as firefighting efforts continue.
