Firefighters in Greece are engaged in an intense battle against multiple wildfires on Chios, a beloved summer destination. Over the weekend, officials declared a state of emergency as the fires spread rapidly, forcing evacuations in a dozen communities. The Hellenic Fire Service reported that three significant blazes ignited in Kofina, Agia Anna, and Agios Makarios Vrontadon.
A remarkable effort of 190 firefighters has been mobilized, with an additional 170 expected to arrive soon, complemented by 13 helicopters and four firefighting planes. Giannis Kefalogiannis, Greece's Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, highlighted the challenging situation due to unpredictable climatic factors like extreme heat and high winds.
Historically, wildfires have plagued Greece, especially during summer when conditions are dry. However, the frequency and severity of these fires have increased in recent years, a trend many experts link to climate change. This year, Greece has prepared more effectively, deploying a record number of firefighters and investing over 2 billion euros in fire detection technologies.
As firefighters continue to struggle with the rapidly spreading flames, officials are also looking into the possibility of arson, prompting a special investigation team to arrive on the island.
A remarkable effort of 190 firefighters has been mobilized, with an additional 170 expected to arrive soon, complemented by 13 helicopters and four firefighting planes. Giannis Kefalogiannis, Greece's Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, highlighted the challenging situation due to unpredictable climatic factors like extreme heat and high winds.
Historically, wildfires have plagued Greece, especially during summer when conditions are dry. However, the frequency and severity of these fires have increased in recent years, a trend many experts link to climate change. This year, Greece has prepared more effectively, deploying a record number of firefighters and investing over 2 billion euros in fire detection technologies.
As firefighters continue to struggle with the rapidly spreading flames, officials are also looking into the possibility of arson, prompting a special investigation team to arrive on the island.
