Large wildfire prompts evacuations in Marathon, Attica, Greece
A major wildfire broke out near Marathon, Attica, Greece, on June 16, 2025, prompting evacuation alerts and a large-scale emergency response.
BREAKING: A major fire is raging out of control. The situation is extremely critical.
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) June 16, 2025
Location: Marathon, Attica, Greece pic.twitter.com/VRWkRGIiOg
A large wildfire broke out at 13:30 LT on June 16 in the Ano Souli forest area near Marathon, northeast of Athens, Greece. The fire spread quickly due to dry vegetation and moderate winds, prompting two emergency evacuation alerts to residents in the areas of Ano Souli and Marathon.
The Hellenic Fire Service mobilized approximately 140 firefighters supported by 38 fire engines, 5 ground teams, multiple volunteer units, and aerial assets including 10 fixed-wing aircraft and 7 helicopters. Reinforcements arrived from multiple regional firefighting departments, with municipal water tankers and earth-moving equipment aiding containment efforts.
Authorities ordered residents of Ano Souli to evacuate toward Grammatiko and those in Marathon to evacuate toward Nea Makri. The fire led to the suspension of vehicle circulation on critical local roads, including Monastiriou Street between Grammatiko Avenue and Ano Souli.
No structural damage or injuries have been reported as of the latest updates. The fire had not reached residential areas or the Monastery of Saint Raphael, located near the affected zone. By late afternoon, firefighting officials reported that the fire front appeared largely under control, supported by favorable shifts in wind conditions.
The Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection issued a “red alert” for wildfires across several Greek regions, including Attica. This follows a period of persistently dry weather, high temperatures, and low relative humidity, which have heightened fire risk across much of the country.
References:
1 Large wildfire in Ano Souli, Marathon: Firefighting forces reinforced – 112 emergency alert issued for evacuation to Grammatiko and Nea Makri – Proto Thema – June 16, 2025
2 Greece firefighters tame wildfire near Athens – Reuters – June 16, 2025
Reet is a science journalist and researcher with a keen focus on extreme weather, space phenomena, and climate-related issues. With a strong foundation in astronomy and a history of environmental activism, she approaches every story with a sharp scientific lens and a deep sense of purpose. Driven by a lifelong love for writing, and a curiosity about the universe, Reet brings urgency and insight to some of the most important scientific developments of our time.
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