A dangerous combination of factors is setting the stage for the potential outbreak of hazardous wildfires, including the threat of mega fires, across Greece.

The situation is being fueled by very strong winds expected to begin today, along with prolonged drought conditions and extremely high temperatures.

Forecast data from the National Observatory of Athens/Meteo.gr indicates that wind gusts in Southern Evia, the Cyclades, and Southern Crete are expected to reach up to 90 km/h during the afternoon hours on Sunday.

In Eastern Central Greece, Central Evia, the islands of the Eastern Aegean, and Eastern Peloponnese, wind speeds are projected to range between 60-70 km/h.

Emergency Measures Implemented

In response to the anticipated extreme weather conditions, the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Vassilis Kikilias, convened an inter-ministerial coordination meeting on Saturday. A series of emergency measures were enacted to address the heightened risk.

From Sunday through the Feast of the Dormition on August 15, Greece will face extremely high-risk weather conditions that could lead to forest fires. The combination of very strong winds, ranging from 6 to 8 Beaufort, alongside ongoing drought and dry conditions, will place nearly half of the country in a state of heightened alert.

Enhanced Readiness across Services

As part of these emergency measures, the Fire Service will be on high alert, deploying both ground and aerial forces as needed.

In areas identified as very high risk, forests, groves, and parks will be closed under the authority of Regional and Municipal decisions. The Greek Police will intensify patrols in these areas, prepared to evacuate citizens to safe locations if necessary.

The Armed Forces will also increase patrols in forested and mountainous regions, with construction machinery ready to create firebreaks if required.

Additional services on heightened alert include the Coast Guard, Civil Protection mechanisms of the Regions and Municipalities, the Forestry Service, and utility companies. The National Emergency Center (EKAV), along with relevant departments from the Ministries of Culture and Tourism, and the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, are also on increased readiness.

Areas on High Alert

According to the Fire Risk Prediction Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, several regions have been placed on extreme fire risk, categorized as a state of emergency (Risk Category 5).

These areas include the Region of Attica (excluding the island of Kythira), the Region of Central Greece (Regional Units of Boeotia and Evia), the Region of Peloponnese (Regional Units of Argolis and Corinthia), and the Region of Crete.

Traffic Ban on Lycabettus Hill

In a related precaution, the Municipality of Athens has announced a traffic ban on Lycabettus Hill. As part of the city’s Civil Protection plan, all major green areas, including the hills of Lycabettus, Strefi, Philopappos, Tourkovounia, and Ilisia, will be guarded.

The municipal authority urges citizens and organizations to remain vigilant and to report any signs of danger by contacting the 24/7 hotline at 1595.