Greek firefighters battled 50 agricultural and forest fires over the past 24 hours as severe weather conditions fueled flames across the country, the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has said.
Rapid deployment of ground and air forces allowed crews to control most blazes in their early stages.
Major emergency operations took place in Zoniana in Rethymno, Afidnes and Pikermi in Attica, Ano Kerasovo in Agrinio, Kalligata in Kefalonia, and Perachora in Loutraki.
In four separate incidents, loaded aerial patrols intercepted and extinguished fires immediately upon outbreak, preventing widespread destruction.
Alongside the massive firefighting effort, authorities are actively cracking down on illegal activities that spark fires. Officials arrested two more individuals in Agrinio and Nea Makri for negligence and violating bans on outdoor hot work. In Agrinio, a 43-year-old man was fined 1,640 euros.
Since the start of the year, authorities have made 213 arrests for intentional and negligent arson, issuing roughly 832,680 euros in administrative penalties.
Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Evangelos Tournas commended the coordinated response of emergency services, military personnel, local municipalities, and volunteer organizations.
Mr. Tournas warned that the next two months will remain exceptionally demanding, requiring continuous readiness and strict public compliance.
The national civil protection mechanism remains on high alert. The Fire Service reported fielding 11 calls in the Attica region alone on Thursday regarding dangerous outdoor welding and hot work, prompting ongoing inspections to prevent further outbreaks.