Greece on high alert for wildfire risk amid heat wave

By Ayhan Mehmet

KOMOTINI (AA) - Authorities in Greece on Friday issued a high-alert warning for potential wildfires, with the risk expected to remain elevated until Aug. 26.

The Greek government has urged citizens to exercise extreme caution and avoid activities that could trigger fires as hot weather conditions continue to escalate the danger.

Greek Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that "no mistake will be forgiven."

Kikilias said that there will be a "very high fire risk" at level 4 for tomorrow in Athens, Central Greece, the Peloponnese, and the Northern Aegean regions, urging citizens to be cautious and to avoid risky behaviors.

He emphasized the critical role of public cooperation in preventing wildfires during this period.

In response to the heightened risk, all relevant state agencies and municipalities have been placed on high alert.

The government has ramped up aerial and ground patrols to monitor for fires, and emergency response teams are on standby.

As a preventive measure, Kikilias also announced the closure of forest areas and national parks to visitors until Aug. 26.