Greek authorities have successfully brought a forest fire under control on Mount Parnitha, which is situated north of Athens. The effort to extinguish the flames involved approximately 100 individuals, including firefighters and volunteers, supported by 22 fire engines and firefighting aircraft, according to reports. The fire originated on the mountain’s southern slope earlier on Thursday but has since been contained.
Authorities have reported no injuries or threats to residential areas, and the cause of the incident remains under investigation. The incident highlights the ongoing environmental challenges faced by Mount Parnitha. Once characterized by dense forest cover, the area has suffered significant degradation from successive summer wildfires that have destroyed substantial amounts of woodland and vegetation.
In response to such risks, Greece has implemented mandatory nationwide measures requiring property owners to clear dry vegetation as a preventative measure, with penalties for non-compliance. At the local level, Athens Mayor Haris Doukas has advised residents to maintain and clear their properties throughout the fire-risk season to mitigate the potential for fire ignition and spread. Looking ahead, Greece plans to enhance its firefighting capabilities, with the introduction of 164 new fire engines in 2026, valued at EUR 15.5 million.
These new assets will include specialized tanker trucks capable of carrying up to 12,000 liters, alongside high-mobility vehicles suitable for difficult terrain.
Topics: #fire #mount #parnitha
What measures are being implemented to prevent future forest fires in the region?