Authorities issue new evacuation orders as Attica fire spreads

Hundreds of firefighters are battling a fierce blaze in northeast Attica that ignited Sunday afternoon in Varnavas and has since spread to Penteli, endangering Nea Makri. Despite the extensive efforts of emergency services, the fire has rapidly intensified.

Βιβλική καταστροφή .. ελπίζω να μην κοιμούνται οι άνθρωποι στο Ντράφι , Διώνη κλπ #φωτια #φωτιατωρα #Μαραθώνα #πεντελη pic.twitter.com/M0hdkGtIC8

— Dimitris V. (@Dv500x) August 12, 2024

The fire service reported early Monday that, despite "superhuman efforts," the blaze has grown uncontrollable. A dramatic illustration of the crisis emerged as 29 children were evacuated from the Penteli Children's Hospital, now threatened by the fire.

Emergency alerts have been issued throughout the affected area. Residents have been advised to evacuate immediately as the fire engulfed homes. One resident from Rapentosa described the devastation, saying, “I was told to leave; the situation is out of control. My house, filled with gas cylinders and oil tanks, is being consumed by the flames.”

The Hellenic Police has urged citizens to avoid affected areas and adhere strictly to evacuation orders to allow emergency services to operate unimpeded. Traffic diversions are in place across eastern Attica to facilitate firefighting efforts.

Fire service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis stated that the fire has advanced to the Penteli Mountains, prompting multiple evacuation messages early Monday for settlements including Old and New Penteli, Melissia, and Drafi. By 5:45 a.m., additional alerts were issued for Anthousa and Anatoli, where firefighting helicopters are actively engaged.

The response involves 510 firefighters, 16 forestry teams, and 152 vehicles, supported by numerous volunteers. Despite the deployment of 29 aerial units, strong winds are exacerbating the situation, with predictions of increasing intensity.

Πικερμι#φωτια #φωτιατωρα #ντραφι #πεντελη #διωνη #Βαρναβας #Μαραθωνας pic.twitter.com/l3YVyb86tm

— Kanello (@iliaskanello) August 12, 2024

Traffic disruptions are extensive, affecting numerous roads including Mikrochori Avenue, Marathonos Avenue, and Dionysos Avenue. The Attica Region remains on high alert, with regional Governor Nikos Chardalias overseeing operations from the Mobile Operational Center in Kapandriti.

For temporary shelter, the OAKA stadium facilities are open to evacuees. Additionally, the Greek Chamber of Hotels has established a platform for temporary accommodations. Interested parties can apply online or contact the provided hotline for assistance.

The Civil Protection Agency continues to monitor the situation closely, providing resources and coordination to manage this severe emergency.