In the wake of a devastating wildfire near Athens, firefighters continue their relentless efforts to extinguish the remaining flames. The blaze, which erupted on August 13, 2023, has left a trail of destruction in its path, claiming one life and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes.
As of August 16, 2023, fire officials report that while most fronts have subsided, the situation remains precarious. The fire has consumed approximately 10,000 hectares (24,710 acres) of land, significantly impacting the region's ecosystem. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing wildfire risks faced by Greece, a country with one of the world's longest coastlines measuring 13,676 km.
The affected areas include the historic town of Marathon, known for the famous battle in 490 BCE that marked a pivotal moment in ancient Greek history. The fire also reached Nea Makri, a coastal area with roots as a refugee settlement following the 1922 population exchange between Greece and Turkey.
Greece's fire service, established in 1930, has deployed hundreds of firefighters and 12 aircraft to combat the blaze. The country's dedicated fire prevention fleet, including Canadair CL-415 water-bombing planes, has been crucial in these efforts. Despite these resources, the rapid spread of the fire, partly attributed to the phenomenon of spotting, has posed significant challenges.
"We are trying to improve every year. But conditions are only becoming tougher."
The Greek government has announced compensation measures for those affected by the disaster. This response aligns with the country's national civil protection plan, "Xenocrates," designed to manage natural disasters effectively.
Climate change has exacerbated the wildfire risk in Greece, a country known for its Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers. Recent years have seen more frequent and severe heatwaves, often with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). This trend has contributed to a nearly 50% increase in wildfires compared to the previous year, with over 3,500 fires recorded since May 2023.
The recent wildfire has also impacted Mount Penteli, considered one of Athens' last green lungs and famous for its high-quality marble used in ancient Greek architecture. This loss underscores the ongoing decline in Greece's forest cover over the past century, partly due to wildfires.
As Greece remains on high fire alert until August 17, 2023, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the critical need for enhanced fire prevention and management strategies.