New Towns Evacuated as Wildfires Approach Athens in Greece

Greek Civil Defense ordered the evacuation of new towns northeast of the capital, Athens, to confront a huge fire that broke out yesterday (Sunday) and continues to expand rapidly, approaching the capital. Fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakoyannis said at a press conference that all civil defense forces fought throughout the night and despite tremendous efforts, the fire continues to spread rapidly and is extending towards Penteli. At least five other areas were evacuated early today, as well as a children's hospital, a military hospital, two monasteries and a children's home. Meanwhile eight people were taken to hospital with respiratory problems. Greek authorities opened the OAKA Olympic Stadium in northern Athens to receive thousands of people. The fire led to the evacuation of eight villages and the historic city of Marathon, 40 kilometers northeast of Athens, which has a population of more than seven thousand, who were transferred to the coastal city of Nea Makri. "We are facing a historic catas trophe. Our entire municipality is exposed to fire and is going through difficult times" said Sergius Tsirkas, mayor of Marathon. Hundreds of wildfires have broken out across Greece this summer, which saw record temperatures in June and July after the country's warmest winter. Source: Oman News Agency