High fire risk alert issued across Greece for June 29

Authorities in Greece have issued a Category 3 (high) wildfire risk warning for Monday, June 29, covering extensive parts of the country due to hot, dry, and windy conditions that significantly increase the likelihood of fires.

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has urged residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid any outdoor activity that could accidentally ignite a fire, especially in rural and forested areas.

Regions at elevated risk

The high fire danger warning applies to a wide range of regions, including:

Attica

Euboea (Evia) and Skyros

Boeotia, Phocis, and Phthiotis

Corinthia and Argolis

Aetolia-Acarnania, Arta, Preveza, Thesprotia, and Lefkada

Magnesia, Larissa, and the Sporades islands

Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, and Mount Athos

Rhodope, Evros, and Samothrace

Lemnos, Lesbos, Chios, and Psara

Parts of Achaia and Elis

Government response

Emergency services across the affected regions have been placed on heightened alert and remain ready to respond rapidly to any wildfire incidents.

Authorities are also urging the public to strictly follow fire prevention rules, avoid activities such as burning vegetation or using open flames outdoors, and to regularly check official fire risk updates.

Residents are encouraged to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately through emergency channels, as early detection is critical during high-risk conditions.

Nine arrested in Greece over negligent wildfires during High Risk Conditions

Greek authorities arrested nine people over the weekend for causing wildfires through negligence, as the country faces elevated wildfire risk due to hot, dry, and windy conditions.

Incidents included a 76-year-old man in Sofiko, Corinth, who allegedly started a fire while using a barbecue and makeshift electrical setup, and a 79-year-old man in Nea Makri who was fined €3,000 for lighting a barbecue during a very high fire risk day.

Officials report 488 fines and 133 arrests so far this year for wildfire-related offenses, with most cases linked to negligence rather than intentional arson.

Authorities warned that even small actions like barbecues, cigarettes, or power tools can trigger devastating fires, especially during high-risk periods, and may lead to heavy fines or prison sentences.