Salamina Wildfires: Two people have died and hundreds of people were evacuated after two wildfires broke out almost simultaneously on the Greek island of Salamina near Athens on Sunday, with strong winds accelerating the spread of flames. Around 200 firefighters were deployed as authorities fought to prevent the twin blazes from joining together. Firefighting aircraft, 50 fire engines, water tankers and construction machinery were also used in the emergency response. The cause of the fires has not yet been determined.
Salamina Wildfires Break Out Almost Simultaneously
The first Salamina wildfire was reported at around 2:40 p.m. local time near the island’s southern coast. The flames spread rapidly in the Peristeria area, a forested residential part of southern Salamina. A second fire broke out around 20 minutes later in the eastern town of Selinia. Officials were particularly concerned that strong winds could push the two fires across mountainous terrain, allowing them to converge and create a larger and potentially more dangerous blaze. Salamina Deputy Mayor Thodoris Zannis said firefighting efforts were focused on preventing the two fires from meeting.
Two People Killed In Salamina Fire
Two people were found dead by firefighters responding to the blaze in Peristeria, according to fire official Vasilios Vathrakoyannis. The mayor of Salamina told Greek media that the victims were believed to have been a couple. Further details about their identities were not immediately available. The deaths came as firefighters continued working in difficult conditions to contain the flames and protect residential areas.
At Least 10 People Hurt, Smoke Inhalation Reported
At least 10 people suffered burns or experienced symptoms linked to smoke inhalation, Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiades said. Five of those affected were taken to local medical facilities for treatment. Officials continued to monitor the situation as emergency crews worked to contain remaining hotspots and prevent the fires from spreading into additional populated areas.
Hundreds Evacuated From Salamina
Evacuations were carried out as the fires threatened parts of the island. Greek media reported that around 500 people left Salamina by sea during the emergency response. Five patrol boats and several private vessels were also sent to assist people leaving areas affected by the fires. Two coast guard vessels and a fire department vessel were expected to remain in the area for surveillance and emergency assistance. The evacuation effort was particularly important because Salamina has around 37,000 residents, many of whom are elderly.
Firefighters Battle Twin Blazes
Around 200 firefighters were involved in the response, supported by 50 fire engines and aircraft. Water tankers and construction machinery were also deployed to help firefighters reach and contain areas affected by the flames. By Sunday evening, one of the fires had reportedly been brought under control and evacuations had been completed. The second fire in Selinia was reported to have no active front, although firefighters continued to deal with scattered flames. Authorities continued monitoring both locations because changing wind conditions could quickly alter the situation.
Why Were The Salamina Fires So Dangerous?
The combination of dry conditions, vegetation, strong winds and the proximity of residential areas increased the danger posed by the fires. The two blazes also started within a short period of each other, raising concerns that they could converge. Firefighters were therefore working not only to extinguish individual flames but also to establish control lines and prevent the fires from spreading toward each other. The exact cause of the Salamina wildfires remained unknown.
Where Is Salamina?
Salamina is a Greek island located in the Saronic Gulf, just west of Athens. The island is relatively close to the Greek capital and has a population of about 37,000 people. Its proximity to Athens and its residential areas make major wildfires particularly disruptive, especially when evacuations are required. The island can be reached by sea, which played an important role in Sunday’s evacuation operation.
Salamina Fire Latest Update
As of Sunday evening, authorities had completed evacuations and reported that one of the fires was under control. The second blaze reportedly had no active front, although firefighters remained deployed to address scattered flames and monitor the affected areas. Emergency vessels were also kept nearby for surveillance and assistance.
Authorities had not yet announced the cause of the fires, and the situation remained subject to change as firefighters continued their work.
Wildfires Also Hit Other Parts Of Europe
The Salamina fires occurred amid a wider series of wildfires affecting parts of Europe. In Belgium, firefighters were battling a major blaze in Hautes Fagnes, the country’s largest nature reserve. The wildfire was described as one of the country’s largest in recent history and reportedly more than doubled in size within 24 hours.
Croatia’s coastline was also hit by a major wildfire overnight on Friday. At least one person died and dozens were injured, while approximately 1,200 residents and tourists were evacuated. Croatia’s fire chief Slavko Tucakovic described that blaze as one of the country’s worst.
Salamina Wildfires: What We Know So Far
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Location: Salamina, Greece, west of Athens
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First fire reported: Around 2:40 p.m. local time
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Second fire: Around 20 minutes later
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Deaths: 2
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People affected by burns or smoke inhalation: At least 10
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People taken for local treatment: 5
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People evacuated by sea: Around 500
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Firefighters deployed: Around 200
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Fire engines: Around 50
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Cause: Not yet known
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Firefighting support: Aircraft, water tankers, construction machinery and emergency vessels
Salamina Wildfire FAQs
What happened in Salamina?
Two wildfires broke out almost simultaneously on the Greek island of Salamina on Sunday. The fires spread rapidly amid strong winds, prompting firefighting operations and evacuations.
How many people died in the Salamina fires?
Two people were found dead by firefighters at the scene of the fire in Peristeria. Local officials said they were believed to have been a couple.
How many people were evacuated from Salamina?
Greek media reported that around 500 people left the island by sea during the emergency response.
Is the Salamina fire under control?
One fire had reportedly been brought under control by Sunday evening, while the second fire was reported to have no active front. Firefighters remained deployed to deal with scattered flames and monitor the situation.
What caused the Salamina wildfires?
The cause of the two fires had not been established at the time of the reported update. Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the outbreaks.
Where is Salamina?
Salamina is located in the Saronic Gulf, just west of Athens, Greece. The island has around 37,000 residents.
Disclaimer: Wildfire situations can change rapidly. Casualty numbers, evacuation figures, containment status and other details may be revised as Greek authorities release further information. This article is based on the information provided in the source material and should not be treated as a real-time emergency alert.
