Wildfire breaks out on Mount Parnitha near Athens

A wildfire broke out on Saturday on Mount Parnitha, north of Athens, prompting a significant response from the local fire brigade.

Nearly 90 firefighters were deployed, assisted by at least eight water-dropping aircraft and helicopters, as the blaze raged near a settlement. Authorities issued an emergency alert for nearby residents to stay alert and follow official guidance. The fire caused the closure of the Athens-Lamia national highway as a precaution, with thick smoke covering parts of northwestern Athens.

Due to unusually high temperatures in spring and June, authorities have said that the risk will be high this summer.