A deadly wildfire in Greece’s Corinthia region has claimed the lives of two individuals and injured dozens more, leaving a large forested area devastated. The blaze has been raging for three days, with hundreds of firefighters and volunteers working tirelessly to contain the fire as scattered flare-ups continue to burn. Assistance has been pledged by other European Union countries, with Croatia and Italy sending planes to help in the efforts.
The Greek fire service has reported that more than 400 firefighters, along with 22 aircraft, are actively engaged in battling the wildfire in the rugged mountains of Corinthia in the Peloponnese region. This year’s wildfire season started earlier than usual, in April, and has extended well into the fall, with a total of 41 wildfires breaking out across the country in the past 24 hours.
Residents in the region have expressed desperation as they witness the destruction caused by the fire, with one individual comparing the devastation to wildfires experienced in the year 2000. Greece, much like other southern European countries, faces destructive wildfires every summer, exacerbated by global warming. This year has been particularly challenging due to a protracted drought and early summer heatwaves, making it the most dangerous wildfire season in two decades.
With over 4,500 wildfires to contend with over the past few months, the Greek fire service is working diligently to combat the blazes and prevent further destruction. The support and solidarity of neighboring countries, as well as the efforts of local firefighters and volunteers, are crucial in containing the wildfires and protecting communities in the region.
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