Critical Failures in Greek Wildfire Response Expose Neglected Preparedness Near Athens

The recent wildfire outbreak just outside Athens has been officially contained, sparing further immediate loss of life. Yet this event starkly highlights deep flaws in Greece’s preparedness for increasingly frequent and intense forest fires exacerbated by climate change.On Thursday, a fast-moving blaze erupted near the coastal village of Thimari, about 35 kilometers southeast of the Greek capital. Fueled by scorching temperatures climbing to 42 degrees Celsius and strong winds—a combination familiar to Greek summers—the fire rapidly consumed vast swaths of forest and residential areas. Authorities evacuated approximately 1,000 people from five different communities and rescued dozens trapped by advancing flames.While...