Greece is mobilizing a record 18,000 firefighters—both permanent and seasonal—supported by thousands of volunteers, and nearly doubling its drone fleet to 82 this summer to combat escalating wildfire threats fueled by climate change. Civil Protection Minister Ioannis Kefalogiannis emphasized the particularly challenging conditions expected this year due to rising temperatures and low rainfall.
Wildfire damage in Greece has surged, with 1,745 square kilometers burned in 2023, tripling the 2011–2020 average. Fire Chief Lt. Gen. Theodoros Vagias highlighted the deployment of elite firefighting units to high-risk zones during the May to October fire season and stressed the need for improved surveillance and preparedness amid the ongoing climate crisis.
Recent drills showcased advanced firefighting tactics, including coordinated water drops from planes, drone surveillance streaming live footage, and simulated evacuations involving the coast guard and armed forces. Additionally, about 300 firefighters from other European nations are joining Greece under an EU support program to strengthen its wildfire response.
Source: Swifteradio.com
