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Intensifying Wildfire Crisis Across Mediterranean
Fresh wildfires have erupted across Greece and Turkey, fueled by extreme temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. Authorities report strong winds and tinder-dry vegetation are creating nightmarish conditions for firefighters battling multiple fronts simultaneously.
Greece's Battle Against Flames
A new fire erupted in Koropi, just 35km south of Athens, rapidly spreading to residential areas due to gusty winds. Emergency services deployed 120 firefighters supported by 8 helicopters and 8 water-bomber aircraft. Approximately 800 residents were evacuated as flames threatened neighborhoods. The fire has now been contained according to Greek fire services.
On Crete, firefighters have contained but not fully extinguished a major blaze that began Wednesday. The inferno consumed approximately 15 square kilometers of land, forcing 5,000 evacuations. Over 130 firefighters with 48 vehicles and 6 helicopters continue operations.
Turkey's Escalating Emergency
In western Turkey's Izmir province, authorities struggle to control rapidly spreading wildfires. Dry conditions and strong winds have facilitated the fire's expansion, destroying 200 homes and displacing tens of thousands since Wednesday. Two fatalities were reported in Odemis, while the tourist hotspot Cesme has been stabilized.
Turkish officials indicate the blazes likely originated from damaged power lines and construction activities. Meanwhile, along the Syrian border, fires near Dortyol threaten residential areas while Syrian authorities in Latakia express concerns about unexploded ordnance from previous conflicts detonating in the intense heat.
Climate Connection
These fires continue a dangerous pattern of Mediterranean wildfires intensifying due to climate change. The European Forest Fire Information System reports fire seasons have lengthened by nearly 20% since 2000, with extreme fire events becoming more frequent. Scientists warn such conditions will persist as global temperatures rise.
