Wildfires cause mass evacuations and widespread damage in Greece

On August 1, 2026, gale-force winds pushed major wildfires through the regions of Boeotia and Attica, resulting in severe property damage and the destruction of approximately 66,600 stremma of land. The fire reached the peak of Mount Kithaeron, while coastal resorts including Porto Germeno were heavily impacted. Due to blocked escape routes, the Hellenic Coastguard and private boat owners conducted emergency sea evacuations for stranded residents and holidaymakers as flames reached the shoreline.

Emergency services, including over 325 firefighters, 92 engines, and 18 forest teams, faced severe operational challenges due to high winds, which grounded 25 aircraft intended for water drops. Authorities issued numerous 112 emergency text alerts to evacuate villages such as Domvraina, Psatha, Mytikas, and Agia Paraskevi. Additional fires were reported in Phocis and Cephalonia, where flames entered the village of Kremmidi.

These fires occurred amidst a wider regional crisis of extreme heat and wildfires across Europe, including parts of France and Spain. Emergency teams remain active at multiple fire fronts, particularly around the Porto Germeno area, as they attempt to contain the blaze while battling unfavorable weather conditions that continue to exacerbate the spread of the flames.