Wildfires in Crete and Athens, aggravated by strong winds and extreme heat, have led to the evacuation of thousands of people and the destruction of farmland.

Wind gusts have complicated the efforts of firefighters in Crete, where vegetation fires have destroyed forests and orchards, forcing the evacuation of thousands of locals and tourists. Greece mobilized significant resources, including 130 firefighters and helicopters, to fight the fires. In Athens, the evacuation affected 800 people in Koropi. The fires, caused by a heat wave, have already claimed at least eight lives in Europe. The damage is considerable and the tourism industry is worried about the long-term impact. Experts warn of increased fire risks from climate change.