It has been a few days since a tragic and fast-spreading wildfire wreaked havoc near Athens. The present conditions in the affected areas in Greece have been horrifying since Sunday. Thousands of residents had to run away from their homes after the massive wildfires destroyed several neighbourhoods. According to multiple reports, the fires burnt land spanning 40,000 acres. The unfortunate episode unfolded just a few days ago. However, travellers worldwide have already booked tickets and hotels to travel to Athens and other destinations in Greece. Given the current updates, is it actually safe to travel there? Let’s find out.
Tourists Are Scared About Recent Wildfires Near Athens
Social media platforms are flooded with visuals of strong fires tearing apart areas in the affected regions. Videos of major wildfires engulfing places and moving towards Athens are dreadful.
This s**t is getting crazy. You can hardly see the sky over #Athens. How does that meme go again? – “This is fine. I’m okay with the events unfolding in #Greece. Everyone stay in the pool and enjoy the view. Ignore that giant #climate fire over just over the hill.” #athensfire pic.twitter.com/wy8OpQIdxR
— Peter Dynes (@PGDynes) August 13, 2024
Rescue operations are ongoing in full swing. According to a report by NDTV, almost 700 firefighters and more than 30 aircraft rushed to the impacted regions to douse the fire and control the outbreak as much as possible. Unfortunately, one of the firefighters extinguishing the flames was rushed to a nearby hospital as he sustained severe health issues such as breathing problems and burns. A spokesperson of the fire brigade department stated that about 13 firefighters also underwent treatment for breathing issues.
The Olympic stadium in northern Athens has been opened to shelter people who are leaving their houses due to wildfires. In addition to this establishment, doors to several other stadiums have been opened as well. According to a report by CNN, around 35 water-bombing aircraft have been sent to douse the blaze. In June, Greece witnessed fierce wildfire this year. Once again, the country is going through a similar phase, rather than facing harsher wildfires in August. This is a severe indication of a rise in temperatures during the summer season and the effects of global warming.
#Athens fires right now, just north of Marathonas. pic.twitter.com/jPjVp3ulgM
— Nux (@Privatenux) August 11, 2024
Amid all things going on due to wildfires near Athens, travellers are contemplating their trip to Athens and other parts of Greece. Till now, there have been no official announcements or warnings for visitors to avoid exploring Greece. However, it is advised to remain updated about everything if you have plans to visit Athens in the next few days. Talk with your travel agent and sort out all confusion before heading to the destination.
Also read: Travel From Santorini To Athens In Just 1 Hour With Hoper, Greece’s First Helicopter Airline
Greek Authorities Order Evacuation of Homes, Hospitals near Athens as Wildfire Rages
A massive fire is out of control in the northern parts of Attica, Athens. pic.twitter.com/fZHj0HEQgi
— East West Group 🇮🇩🇧🇦🇹🇷🇩🇪🇵🇸 (@MoneyMasterGuru) August 12, 2024
When Did The Fire Start?
Another huge terrifying fire in Attiki, Greece.
Smoke covering Athens with regional towns and villages being evacuated.
Thoughts with everyone affected and anger to the inertia and corruption of the Mitsotakis’ government. #φωτιά #Μαραθωνα #Αττικη pic.twitter.com/3TrDnmRkiA
— Lily McBak (@LilyMcBak) August 11, 2024
According to a report by Time Out, wildfires first started on August 11. It started near Lake Marathon and steadily blew towards Athens. Within a day, the entire country was warned about the ongoing fires. Concerned authorities jumped to take significant steps to manage the chaos all around.
🇬🇷 Greek Authorities Order Evacuation of Homes, Hospitals near Athens as Wildfire Rages
A massive fire is out of control in the northern parts of Attica, Athens.
The wildfires are spreading despite “superhuman” efforts to combat the flames, the fire brigade said. pic.twitter.com/4yyd98524g
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) August 12, 2024
Also read:8 Best Things To Do In Santorini, Greece For A Memorable Vacation
Think about your decisions precisely and then only board your flight to Greece.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/ Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo)
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