Deadly wildfires devastate Attica and Boeotia as response continues

A catastrophic wildfire that originated on July 31 in Agios Vasileios, Boeotia, has expanded uncontrollably across Attica, burning over 66,600 to 100,000 stremmata of forest and agricultural land. As of August 2, approximately 500 firefighters, including specialized teams from France and Romania, along with extensive air support, are battling multiple fronts near Porto Germeno, Kithaironas mountain, and Megara. The fires have forced numerous evacuations of settlements, including Veniza, Psatha, and areas near the Megara industrial zone, while causing severe damage to over 100 homes.

Tragedy struck during the firefighting efforts in Psatha, where two Bell helicopters collided, resulting in the deaths of two crew members; two others were rescued. Investigations by the Arson Crimes Division have led to two arrests, identifying an electrical fault in a private wind turbine energy transfer network as the ignition source. Additional fires are currently reported in Focis and Kefalonia, further straining national resources. Officials note that severe winds have frequently grounded aircraft and complicated the creation of containment zones. The state of emergency persists as authorities continue to monitor volatile fronts and protect critical infrastructure against the ongoing threat.