Greek Wildfires Ravage Forests, Homes as PM Warns of More Difficult Days

Raging wildfires have continued to sweep across several parts of Greece, destroying forests, homes and farmland as firefighters battle multiple blazes fuelled by strong winds, soaring temperatures and prolonged dry conditions. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned that the country faces "more difficult days ahead" as authorities struggle to contain the fires.

Thousands of residents have been evacuated from communities threatened by the advancing flames, while emergency services remain on high alert across affected regions. Firefighters, supported by water-dropping aircraft, helicopters and volunteers, have been working around the clock to prevent the fires from spreading to more populated areas.

Speaking after visiting some of the affected communities, Mitsotakis praised the efforts of emergency responders but cautioned that extreme weather conditions were likely to prolong the crisis. He said climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of wildfires in Greece, making every fire season more challenging than previous years.

Authorities said extensive damage had been recorded, with dozens of homes and large stretches of forest destroyed. Although emergency teams succeeded in rescuing many residents, officials continued to urge people in high-risk areas to comply promptly with evacuation orders as changing wind conditions could rapidly alter the direction of the fires.

Greece has increasingly experienced severe wildfires during recent summers, with experts linking the trend to rising temperatures and prolonged drought associated with climate change. The government has pledged continued support for affected communities while intensifying firefighting operations until the blazes are brought under control.