Two people have died and hundreds were evacuated after two wildfires erupted almost simultaneously on the Greek island of Salamina, just west of Athens.
The first blaze broke out in the southern area of Peristeria at about 14:40 local time.
It spread quickly through a forested residential zone as strong winds fanned the flames.
Just 20 minutes later, another fire erupted in Selinia on the island’s eastern side.
Could the two fires have merged into one much larger disaster? That was precisely what firefighters were racing to prevent.
Around 200 firefighters, 50 fire engines and several aircraft were deployed, while boats helped evacuate about 500 people by sea.
Blazes Devastate Greek Island
Fire officials said the first blaze was eventually brought under control, although scattered fires remained.
Two bodies were discovered in the first fire and are believed to have been a couple. At least 10 others suffered burns or smoke inhalation.
The cause of the fires remains unknown.
Salamina’s emergency comes as wildfires rage across Europe.
Belgium and Croatia have also battled major blazes.
The EU’s Copernicus service says western Europe has just experienced its hottest June-to-July period on record.
For firefighters, the message is brutally simple: when heat, dry vegetation and strong winds collide, minutes can make all the difference.
