Tragic Death Reported as Athens Wildfire Devastates Suburbs, Forcing Thousands to Flee

A Massive Wildfire Continues to Rage as Greece Calls for International Aid

A woman’s body was discovered early Tuesday in a burned-out factory near Athens, marking the first confirmed fatality from a catastrophic wildfire that has ravaged the city’s northeastern suburbs. The inferno has forced thousands to evacuate and prompted a desperate appeal for international assistance.

The wildfire, now in its third day, has left one dead, injured 66 people, and caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles. Five firefighters are among the injured as they battle to contain the blaze, fueled by strong winds and scorching temperatures.

The Moldovan woman’s body was found in the suburban town of Halandri, one of the hardest-hit areas along with Nea Penteli, Palaia Penteli, and Vrilissia. As the flames advanced, residents shared harrowing stories of loss and devastation.

“Never in a million years did I think a fire would come here,” said 65-year-old Sakis Morfis, who returned to find his Vrilissia home reduced to ashes. “We’re without clothes, money—everything was burned inside.”

In response to the escalating crisis, Greece has called on European nations for support. France, Italy, the Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, and Turkey are sending hundreds of firefighters, helicopters, fire engines, and water tankers to assist.

Despite some progress made overnight, Greek fire officials warned of worsening conditions as winds are expected to pick up later in the day. The fire has already destroyed over 10,000 hectares of land, with temperatures in Athens expected to reach 38°C (100°F) on Tuesday.

The disaster has sparked outrage and criticism of the government, with local media questioning the response and preparedness. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who cut short his vacation to return to Athens, has yet to publicly address the crisis.

This year’s wildfire season in Greece has been particularly severe, fueled by unprecedented heatwaves linked to climate change. The memories of the 2018 Mati fires, where 104 people perished, loom large as the country faces another devastating summer.