A significant forest fire has erupted near the Greek city of Corinth on Tuesday, forcing authorities to evacuate several villages as the flames threaten local communities.
Intense Blaze Spreads Quickly
An intense blaze is tearing through thick fir forests in Corinthia, spreading rapidly due to strong winds. Firefighters are racing against the clock to contain the flames before nightfall, which could halt air support efforts.
🔥Εκτός ελέγχου η #πυρκαγιά στην #Κορινθία.
Στήνονται γραμμές άμυνας απο το Πυροσβεστικό Σώμα ώστε να περιοριστεί όσο το δυνατόν συντομότερα πριν τη δύση του ήλιου όπου και θα σταματήσουν τις ρίψεις τα εναέρια.
Η φωτιά καίει σε δύσβατη περιοχή, παρθένο δάσος με έλατα. pic.twitter.com/lORZg2a2D5
— Εποχικοί Πυροσβέστες (@epoxpyrosvestes) July 22, 2025
Firefighting Efforts Underway
According to the fire department, more than 180 firefighters, along with 15 planes and 12 helicopters, are actively tackling the wildfire in a dense pine forest in the mountains near Corinth. Fortunately, there are currently no reports of casualties.
Local officials are urging residents to heed evacuation orders and prioritize their safety as the situation escalates. Communities are rallying together to provide support for those displaced by the fire, while emergency services remain on high alert for any changes in the fire’s behavior.
Challenging Weather Conditions
Firefighters are facing particularly tough weather conditions, with a heatwave pushing temperatures to around 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in many regions of the country.
Earlier on Tuesday, a firefighting helicopter tragically crashed into the sea while attempting to refuel near Athens. The three crew members were rescued and transported to a hospital, highlighting the dangers faced by those combating these wildfires.
A History of Wildfires in Greece
Wildfires are a frequent occurrence in Greece during the hot, dry summer months. The country has already battled dozens of wildfires this year. In 2018, a devastating fire swept through the seaside town of Mati, east of Athens, resulting in over 100 fatalities as people were trapped while trying to escape.
