A wildfire, driven by strong winds has rapidly approached the outskirts of Athens, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes.
Nikos Papanikolaou, reporting from Athens, described the air as thick with the smell of burning, with intense heat and a sky darkened by smoke.
Homes in Varnavas, located roughly 20 miles northeast of Athens, have been engulfed by the flames. A children’s hospital and a military medical facility were evacuated at dawn, according to a fire brigade spokesperson.
The wildfire, which ignited on Sunday afternoon, has prompted the deployment of around 670 firefighters who are currently battling to contain the blaze. The situation remains critical as efforts continue to prevent the fire from spreading further.
Source ~ BBC
– Arise News.