Firefighters battling the massive wildfire in western Attica gained ground overnight, with authorities reporting that the blaze had eased on Tuesday morning. However, officials warned that the coming afternoon would be critical as rising temperatures and strengthening winds threaten to reignite active fire fronts.
More than 400 firefighters, assisted by dozens of fire engines, helicopters, and water-dropping aircraft, remain deployed across the fire zone stretching between Boeotia and western Attica. Crews have focused on containing scattered flare-ups near Kandili, Psatha, and surrounding areas after several days of intense firefighting.
Authorities said the overnight effort helped improve the situation, but difficult terrain, dry vegetation, and shifting winds continue to pose serious challenges. Emergency services remain on high alert, with additional aircraft expected to resume operations as weather conditions permit.
The wildfire has burned thousands of hectares
The wildfire has burned thousands of hectares of forest, farmland, and olive groves while destroying homes and forcing evacuations in several communities west of Athens. Thick smoke has spread across much of Attica during recent days, affecting air quality in the capital.
The operation has also been overshadowed by tragedy. On Sunday, two firefighters lost their lives when two firefighting helicopters collided while battling the blaze near Psatha. Two other crew members survived after making an emergency landing. Greek authorities have launched an investigation into the crash.
Investigators are also examining the suspected cause of the wildfire. Officials are looking into whether sparks from a private power line in neighboring Boeotia ignited the blaze, and legal proceedings have reportedly begun against individuals connected to the installation.
Despite the improved conditions on Tuesday morning, civil protection authorities warned that the danger is far from over. Meteorologists forecast higher temperatures and stronger afternoon winds, conditions that could rapidly intensify remaining hotspots and create new flare-ups.
Firefighters are expected to remain fully deployed throughout the day as Greece continues to battle one of its most destructive wildfire outbreaks of the summer.
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