Thousands evacuated as wildfires approach Athens
THOUSANDS of residents are being evacuated from their homes as a large wildfire is spreading towards Athens, with some flames leaping as high as 25m (80ft).
The historic site of Marathon is among the areas where residents are being moved to safety by the emergency services.
Houses and properties in the nearby town of Varnavas were burning, according to the fire brigade.
Firefighters also evacuated people trapped by flames in a convoy of 20 to 25 vehicles that had been trying to escape the area.
Forty fires have broken out in Greece since Saturday afternoon with firefighters still battling seven.
The fire brigade worked throughout the night “but despite superhuman efforts, the fire evolved rapidly”, spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said in an emergency press briefing early on Monday.
More than 500 firefighters and 150 vehicles have been deployed to help put out the flames.
He said the fire is now heading to Mount Penteli, famous for its marble quarries, and the adjoining Athens suburb of the same name where three hospitals have been evacuated.
—BBC
