Major fire-fighting force mobilizes to fight the sizable blaze in the well-known pine and fir forest

Panagiotis Sinioros, CEO of Aegean Recycling, noted that there was an unusually large amount of stored material due to delays in transport to recycling plants, caused by logistical challenges between Lesbos and the port of Piraeus

No immediate danger to residents, but Attica remains under high fire-risk alert today

Prime Minister Mitsotakis closed his remarks by reaffirming the government’s full backing for Greece’s firefighters: “Your mission is sacred. Our job is to ensure you have the tools, training, and technology to carry it out safely and successfully.”

Forecast models from the National Observatory of Athens (meteo.gr) and the HEAT-ALARM system indicate significant heat stress for much of the country

Emergency services remain on high alert as efforts to contain the blaze continue

In addition to ground operations, a firefighting helicopter has been dispatched to assist from the air

The United Nations has urged governments to invest more in wildfire prevention rather than focusing solely on emergency response. It warns that climate change is projected to increase the frequency of extreme wildfires globally by 14% by the end of the decade

It is also reminded that during the official fire season, the burning of fields is strictly prohibited. Anyone who spots a fire is urged to immediately contact the Fire Department by dialing 199

According to the fire brigade, 32 fire-fighters were dispatched to the scene, with eight vehicles operating, while four water-dropping aircraft was assisting before dusk

The emergency 112 message urged residents to remain alert and follow instructions issued by the authorities for their safety

No evacuations have been reported at this stage while the firefighting effort remains ongoing.

The proximity of the fire to residential zones has raised serious concerns among local authorities. The combination of industrial materials and nearby homes has placed firefighting crews on high alert

Residents in the surrounding area were urged to stay indoors and seal windows and doors to minimize exposure to the hazardous fumes

According to meteorological data, the weather pattern responsible for the increased fire risk is expected to persist at least until July 20. The combination of rising temperatures, dry air, and strong winds could significantly worsen conditions each day

Authorities remain on high alert as efforts to control the fire continue under challenging weather conditions

The “Hot–Dry–Windy” conditions expected between 13–16 July are likely to increase the flammability of dry vegetation, enabling fires to ignite and spread rapidly — even during nighttime hours

This preventive measure reflects growing concerns across Greece over the increasing threat of forest fires during the summer months, exacerbated by dry weather and strong winds

The total firefighting force for summer 2025 is 18,031 personnel. This includes 11,746 permanent staff, 1,860 on five-year contracts, 1,455 forest commandos, and 2,500 seasonal firefighters. Additionally, there are 5,500 civil protection volunteers and 5,000 volunteer firefighters

Authorities imposed an administrative fine of €9,750 on the man for breaching existing fire prevention laws. He is currently being held in custody and is expected to appear before the competent investigative judge on Friday