In a tragic turn of events, a wildfire has claimed two lives in the central Greek region of Corinth. The blaze, which began on September 29, 2023, continues to rage uncontrolled near the seaside town of Xylokastro, approximately 120 km west of Athens on the Peloponnese peninsula.
Constantina Dimoglidou, a Greek police spokeswoman, confirmed that two bodies were recovered from the fire-affected area. The severity of the burns necessitates laboratory tests for identification. In response, the Greek Citizen's Protection Ministry has initiated an investigation into the incident.
The wildfire, exacerbated by strong winds, has prompted the evacuation of several villages in the vicinity. Hundreds of firefighters, supported by nine aircraft, are working tirelessly to contain the blaze. This event highlights the challenges faced by Greece's fire service, which was established in 1930 and now employs over 12,000 personnel.
Greece, a country with a landscape that is 80% mountainous and boasts one of the world's longest coastlines at 13,676 km, is no stranger to wildfires. On average, the nation experiences about 1,500 wildfires annually, with the fire season typically lasting from May to October. The use of firefighting aircraft, first introduced in the 1970s, has become crucial in combating these natural disasters.
The current situation is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather conditions affecting Greece. The country has just experienced its hottest summer on record, following the warmest winter in recorded history. These conditions have left large areas with minimal or no rainfall, creating an environment conducive to wildfires.
Climate change is increasingly linked to the frequency and intensity of wildfires globally. In response to this growing threat, Greece implemented a national forest fire prevention program in 1998. The Greek Civil Protection system, established in 1995, plays a vital role in coordinating responses to such emergencies.
The Peloponnese peninsula, where this wildfire is occurring, is a region steeped in history and mythology. It was the site of the first Olympic Games in 776 BCE and is home to numerous ancient sites. The nearby Corinth Canal, completed in 1893, stands as a testament to human engineering prowess.
As Greece continues to grapple with this latest wildfire, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the critical importance of fire prevention and management strategies in protecting both human lives and the country's rich natural and cultural heritage.