The Greek prime minister was briefed early on Saturday on the major fire fronts in Boeotia, Aigio and Rethymno, as hundreds of firefighters, aircraft, helicopters, military units and local authorities continued an intense overnight battle. A gradual easing of the winds has raised cautious hopes, but the country remains on maximum alert.
Delivery of three Diamond surveillance planes and plans for new Canadair 515s signal a radical upgrade in Greek firefighting.
Authorities urge extreme caution as hot, dry conditions push fire danger to “very high”
Greece ranks fifth worst in forest fire destruction over the past 20 years – Spain leads with a record-breaking 3.5 million hectares burned in 2025.
Thick smoke and burnt air reach Greek islands and the mainland — 13 dead in Turkey as massive fires rage near the Dardanelles.
EU Civil Protection Mechanism activated 16 times already — matching the total for the entire 2024 fire season
Opposition slams the Greek government over prevention and firefighting capacity—debate escalates over preparedness, responsibility, and controversial remarks
Greece on high alert as thousands flee homes amid fierce winds and relentless flames — firefighters battle multiple fronts with aerial support
A barrage of 112 emergency alerts has urged residents either to remain on high alert or to evacuate dozens of settlements for safety reasons. Approximately 5,000 firefighters and volunteers are involved in the firefighting efforts.
On Chios, meanwhile, a blaze broke out in Sidirounda, which is located on the island’s northwest and is renowned for its beautiful medieval village, which, fortunately, managed to survive unscathed.
Mentioning upcoming permanent wage and pension raises as of January 1 and Christmas bonuses for pensioners, Mitsotakis noted that "we are now nearing the beginning of the end of this cycle of high prices," but he warned that circumstances are still difficult.
