Fire Brigade: 109 fires burning across Greece – authorities warn of extreme risk

Greece remains in the grip of a severe wildfire crisis, with 109 fires raging across the country, according to Fire Brigade spokesman Fire Colonel Vassilis Vathrakogiannis. Speaking at a late Wednesday briefing, Vathrakogiannis described the situation as “difficult,” noting that 48 new forest fires had been recorded in the past 24 hours, 38 of which were contained immediately.

According to AMNA, the most critical fronts are in Achaia, Preveza, and the island of Chios, where two major blazes continue to burn. The Ionian islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia are also facing two active fronts each. Authorities are warning that Thursday will bring very high fire danger to most regions and are urging citizens to avoid outdoor activities that could spark new outbreaks.

Major fire fronts and response efforts:

Kapeleto, Ilia – Fire contained.

Filippiada – Three main fronts toward Kampi, Limni Zirou, and Gorgomilo; 3 helicopters and 8 aircraft in operation.

Zakynthos – Two fronts toward Koiliomenos and Pantokratoras; 5 aircraft and 4 helicopters deployed.

Chios – Two fronts toward Sidirounta and Fyta; 2 aircraft and 6 helicopters in action.

Lixouri, Kefalonia – Two fronts in north and south Atheras; 4 aircraft and 1 helicopter deployed.

Achaia – Fire near Sychena advancing toward Kato Achaia mountains; 13 planes and 10 helicopters involved.

The National Emergency Aid Center (EKAV) has evacuated 71 people to hospitals so far:

22 from Achaia

3 from Etoloakarnania

37 from Preveza

9 from Chios

In Achaia, 12 children from the Karamandaneio Children's Hospital were moved as a precaution to the University General Hospital in Rio.

Authorities stress that weather conditions in the coming hours could fuel further flare-ups, making vigilance and public cooperation crucial.