Major fire breaks out in southern Greece

Α major fire has broken out on Sunday in southern Greece, burning homes in villages not far from the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia. The fire broke started near the villages of Krestena and Skillountia, south and southeast of Ancient Olympia.

>Authorities have evacuated at least six villages in the area. The prevailing northwesterly winds are pushing the fire to the southeast, up a mountain and away from Ancient Olympia, authorities said.125 firefighters and 43 fire engines were operating in the area, as well as four planes and four helicopters.

There are at least six more fires burning across the country, according to the fire service, with three of those burning for several days. Hot and dry conditions, along with high winds that often change direction, have prevailed for weeks in Greece.A heatwave that arrived Saturday and pushed temperature past 41 Celsius in places Saturday, is expected to persist for several days.